Once upon a time, in a world named Altaea; a lush continent, known only as Carcassonne stood as a home to humanity and its major bedrock civilizations.
The Age of Nobles
Wars, Armed Conflicts, and Civil Strife had ravaged the lands and for a time, great suffering engulfed the surrounding territories as petty squabbles over land, territory, ideologies, religions, and wealth threatened to tear humanity to pieces in what was known as the [i][b]Age of Darkness[/i][/b]. As time passed, the people grew weary of the death and suffering sweeping across Carcassonne and in desperation; the common masses placed their faith in the hands of select charismatic and wealthy individuals, believing trust and power should lay in the hands of capable leaders. Their choices to eventually bring sense to the merciless wars and grief that had begun to eradicate so many other races and cultures proved to be both a blessing and a curse and from there, a new class of individuals were born into positions of immense power; culminating the [b][i]Age of Discovery[/b][/i]. Sometime later, in what later became known as the Age of Nobles, these power retainers became known as aristocrats, nobles, and patricians and for a time, the belief that elevating certain select individuals to guide and serve the people brought stability and peace.
Soon Kingdoms, Hegemonies, Principalities and Duchies formed from the ashes of war. Humanity expanded, cities rose from the ground, and knowledge slowly began to spread across Carcassonne as major civilizations began to emerge. Peace would not last, however, and having acquired immense wealth and control over large swaths of land and peoples, the ruling nobility within each nation began to initiate armed conflicts against one another for nefarious gains. All the same; suffering returned in the form of mass genocides as petty kings, rulers, and Emperors continually vied for absolute power ...
Western Carcassonne
Two great powers once existed within the resource rich Western territories, the Northwest composing of the powerful Sarifen Empire and to the Southwest, the Kingdom of Valania. For centuries, the former Kingdom existed as one of the only Carcassonnian powerhouses to fully check the vast and mighty Sarifen Empire. Through tragedy, force of arms, or simple, outright vengeance many Valanian patriots and heroes have always emerged to answer the call to arms against Sarifen aggression; however, within the last century; grossly careless corruption, power mongering, and cancerous decays within Valania's major military and civil institutions brought the Kingdom farther into decline and financial ruin. Further ruin was brought when assassins savagely murdered Valania's Crown King and Queen. The then five year old Crown Prince, Lucius Le Cross VII was immediately elevated to the thrown, however, by then, the damage had already been done. The deaths of Lothair and Celestine Le Crosse, the throne was left without experienced leaders or the trust of the ruling classes. The Crown Prince, though young, showed all the signs of a talented leader, yet his inexperience left him to the mercy of the more devious members of Valania's power holding aristocrats.
Then on the eve of Spring 2985 UC, a Lightening Sarifen offensive, driven by Emperor Aryanpour and his Sipahis proved more than enough for Valania's poorly assembled armies and brought a series of astounding defeats until a decisive route at the Battle of Vercelli Heights spelled the collapse of Valania's mighty armies. The mysterious and somewhat suspicious retreat of the Kingdoms famed mounted brigades spelled doom for the rest the Kingdom and by the year's end, Emperor Aryanpour had successfully annexed Valania into Sarife. Shortly afterwards, a Valanian aristocrat named Richter Von Conqvist was awarded stewardship over the vacant Valanian palace within Valania's capital, Voltas. Simultaneously, the entire Valanian Royal Family of the Le Crosse line were gathered and executed enmass and only the young crown prince and princess, Lucius and his sister, Ryanna managed to escape. Through hardship, grievous misery, and sacrifice; the two managed to brave Sarifen patrols and escape to the Vectis embassy, where they secretly lived in exile under Vectis supervision.
Carcassonne in the Current Age
In the present age, humans are spreading across the globe and Carcassonne's inhabitants are literally on the verge of entering the Renaissance. Freedom of Speech, Economic Equality, Meritocratic Ideologies, Joint Stock Companies, and many other opportunities are on the horizon, however corruption, nepotism, patrician elitists, and classism prevent many civilizations from modernizing into a new age of greatness. To make matters worse, unnecessary continental wars, famines, and a crippling plague outbreak threaten to tear society apart.
It is now 2999 UC and Valania is in a state of heavy decline, due to institutional neglect, excessive corruption, gluttony, and indifference to the suffering populace. The gap between the rich and the poor is appalling and the mortality rate has risen as the people either starve or barely scrape by. Famines have spread across Valania and Sarife, however, the Emperor and the Empire's many Sarifen and turncoat Valanian aristocrats turn a blind eye to the mass suffering as they indulge in lives of incredible privilege and comfort. All the same two generations of incessant guerilla warfare within Valania's territories have emptied Sarifan coffers as the paranoid Emperor Aryanpour retains his massive army over widespread disbandment. Whispers have also spread throughout the land that a deep rift has emerged between the Emperor and his son, the Royal Sarifen Prince Bahramesh Azad Aryanpur II; whom holds no love for the Empire's buckling economy and his father's mistreatment of the people.
All the same, reports from Sarife's most accomplished agents speak of a secret alliance between Carcassonne's Southern rulers as the Kingdoms of Vectis, Vorst, Ivalis mobilize their armies along Valania's Southern borders. Simultaneously, disheveled refugees arrive from across the sea along Carcassonne's West and Northern coasts. Nightmarish tales have emerged of ancient nations falling to merciless and unstoppable hordes wearing impenetrable, plate mail armor. Heroes and Patriots are needed once again to fight the injustice that once again threatens to engulf Carcassonne into anarchy and totalitarian rule. Where are Valania's champions during its hour of need? Where is Valania's Crown Prince, Lucius or the Prince Bahramesh? What toils await Sarife as famines drain their rivers and farmlands? Nothing is certain; however, a storm is coming. With unemployed masses, crippling debts, and suffocating class imbalances; the people must look within themselves than towards their local indifferent aristocrats to bring life to their dying nations. Who will answer the call? Only those whom dare to dream, stand a chance of survival and whatever happens, the next chapter within Carcassonne's Blood-Riddled Sagas will soon unfold. Those whom decide to reverse the peoples' dwindling misfortunes will forever inshrine themselves into legend for this is a new age! An Age of Revolution ...
Author's Note and Introductions Greetings and welcome all! My name is GourmetItalia and I've been roleplaying on and off for close to a decade. Altaea: The Age of Revolution is a roleplay/story idea that has been on the backburner and on my mind to fully jump start. Before you read any further, I want to emphasize that the yellow words are links to personally selected soundtracks that, in my opinion, best fit this story's themes so for those who've decided to stop by and take the time to read this story/roleplay pitch, don't hesitate to open new browser tabs to open those links! I want to invite all of you to join me in writing an epic tale that will span across multiple episodes, chapters, and with enough dedication volumes!
This is a story where the continent's inhabitants are literally on the verge of the Renaissance, but immense corruption, classism, greed, and a multitude of others factors are preventing society from advancing any further. Think of the Three Musketeers on crack with a dose of the Count of Monte Cristo and A Tale of Two Cities. I will repeat what I just said because I want to emphasize that the world is on the verge of entering into the Renaissance, but for now, it is in a very technologically advanced Late Middle Ages. I am basing the Valanians on a mix between the Polish Commonwealth and 14th century France while the Sarifens have a strong resemblance to the Sasanian Empire with a dose of the Spanish Empire's combined arms approach to warfare. I am also borrowing ideas from the French Revolution to add a little more fuel to this growing storytelling fire. History buffs can certainly vouch for me here and correct me as they see fit!
On a fighting scale, think of mass pike warfare with rapiers, cannons, and early flintlock muskets. Magic is very low key due to the fact that the magi disciplines and schools were lost or destroyed long ago, but not entirely non-existent. I intend to keep magic low key so there aren't a select few overpowered demi-gods laying waste to whatever they see fit! On a plot and non-combat level, think of audacious backroom deals and being starved, betrayed, hounded, mocked, and hunted when least expected. This is very team oriented story in that individuals are heavily encouraged to coordinate with one another because the world is both very dangerous and rife with vicious cut throats. I want to heavily emphasize the fact that not only are character deaths very plausible, but that they can and will happen. Work together, collaborate ideas, and be cautious or die alone in a forgotten alley or ditch! *grins*
Everything will be broken down into Chapters and after each conclusion, new Chapters maybe unlocked for the future. The writers are free to decide where the entire group will proceed by means of a democratic vote. As more about the story and characters are unlocked, information about Sarife and Valania will be revealed and as the Story Manager, I will offer guidance and suggestions as the plots unfold and will be open to questions or other suggestions to both enhance the story and clarify any misunderstandings or vague subjects. Rough story and character concept credits go to Mr. D.
The writer characters may become the brain children and architects for a major political shift into the radical direction or themselves become a part of an audacious plan to launch a revolution in an effort to overthrow the Sarifen Throne. Characters will be primarily Valanian and Sarifen or a mix of both. Creativity is encouraged and acts of Heroism, Sacrifice, and sheer audacious will be required to both save Carcassonne from the jaws of anarchy and relapse back into fuedalism. The story is as much about gathering information as it is about uncovering conspiracies, prevailing against ridiculous odds, and surviving assassination attempts! The player-writers will right a wrong that happened many centuries ago that involved the handing of power to questionable members of society that become nobility. We do not need a large crew and can start 4, 3, or even just 2 other writers (not including myself). Again, if anyone has any questions, please ask and I will be more than happy to answer!
Sarife is the home of Zendricaanism, the only religion in the world to rival the Augurian church for size. Formerly the Sarife empire stood in opposition to the Suitania Empire before its collapse. It is famous for its horses, the highest quality breeds are bred from the wild runners on the plains and are said to have been cousins of Valanian mounts. In a land where scarce water is considered a commodity the capitol city, Orad is overflowing with vast public fountains and water features, a display of its wealth and power. Architecture in Sarife is simple, with small, squat sand stone buildings and rectangular apartment buildings. The temples and palaces are built in more elaborate designs, housing exquisite marble and ornate sandstone masonry.
Royal Family and Royalty:
The current ruler of Sarife is king Anoush Arash Aryanpur I, a cruel and callous man much despised by his subjects. The cruel nature of Emperor Anoush Arash Aryanpur I’s rule does not help to ease tensions and many commoners living amongst Sarife’s urban centers feel no love towards him. Even members of Sarife’s standing army despise him and many speak his name in disdain. There are rumors within the Sarifen high court that his mental sanity is becoming less and less reasonable, although none can assert this claim since the Emperor has appeared in public for many months. Many concerns from the nobility have fallen on deaf ears as Emperor Anoush remains indifferent to the deteriorating of the state and instead of addressing the needs of the people and the shortage of grain supplies, he sits in his palace, preferring a life of wasteful luxury, incessant gorging, and bedding with fine women. Rumors of his bearing of illegitimate children have surfaced, but only his son, the royal crown prince Bahramesh Azad Aryanpur II, and daughter the royal crown princess Farah Lila Aryanpur I know this as the truth. Prince Bahramesh Azad Aryanpur II is half Al Mayin, though due to his eyes not taking on the normal pupil less nature of the Al Mayin he is able to pass for a normal person. He is beloved by the people of Sarife who see him as a saviour, specifically the military, as he grew up as a mascot for the military forces, accompanying them from an early age. Some say he is the reincarnation of the first king of Sarife, king Bahramesh from whom he draws his name as the resemblance is uncanny. He is loved for his noble and honorable nature, though he is also known for his ruthlessness. He cares deeply for his people though he comes across as somewhat arrogant and selfish. The king's daughter Princess Farah Lila Aryanpur I is a seer and half Al Mayin. She is blessed with miraculous powers and is kept disguised when she appears in public to prevent others from seeing her tell tale eyes. The official cover story is that she is seriously ill and must be covered with a veil at all times due to a skin condition.
Geography:
Occupying the rocky deserts of Dumah in the north, Sarife is surrounded by sand dunes with a few oasis areas. A large central river springs from the main city of Orad and flows west to the sea.
Military Power:
Sarife possesses a tremendous military, the largest in the known world by some margin and renowned for its heavily drilled conscripts, combined arms doctrines, and well equipped regiments. Their Nezām-e Jadīd and Zhayedan (Immortals) regiments are particular the pride of the Imperial Banners, fielding warriors trained from birth, having no families, and owing nothing to anyone or anything, but to the Sarifen state. Its archers are on par with those of the powerful nation of Vectis and its marksmen are well known for their deadly aim. Its military might also extends to a colossal navy rivaling that of the great nation of Ivalis.
Current Climate:
In the west, the life of a Sarifen commoner is slightly better than that of a Valanian, however their way of living is anything, but pleasant. Heavy taxation, natural disasters, nepotism within vital judicial councils, arrogance, corruption, bribery, assassinations, a shortage of water, and the slow deterioration of Sarife’s military are leading the Empire into disaster. Indifferent to the the Empire’s deterioration, the Sarifen Emperor Anoush Arash Aryanpur I casts a blind eye upon the plight of his people, preferring a life of self-indulgence, wasteful luxury, incessant gorging, and the company of exotic women. Dark days lie ahead for the great Sarifen Empire and it seems the gods are exacting their revenge for what it did to the Valanians, just twenty years before. Deep within the heart of Voltas, however, an ancient Sarifen hero of Sarife’s distant past has awakened. Saddened and grief stricken with what has become of his nation, he gathers what little good remains of his countrymen in an attempt to save the Empire from the brink of disaster. Soldiers, politicians, officers, scholars, ideal minded nobility, merchants, land owners, and Sarife’s best and brightest are desperately called when their nation needs them most. Should they fail, they not only face lawless anarchy, but the complete and utter destruction of their great nation.
The landscape is mainly flatlands that slowly segue into desert in the east as the land borders Sarife territory. Its architecture is spindly and gothic, with sinister looking spires.
Royal Family and Royalty:
The current ruler of Valania is governer Richter Von Conqvist IV, a vassal of the former king who pledged his allegiance to the emperor of Sarife in exchange for becoming steward of Valania. His Chuda gypsy and lineage offers, in own right, legitimacy within aristocratic ranks, though he has long held a deep, abiding hatred of the Rydars, who oppressed his people for so long and of whom the former king was descended. The next in line to the throne of Valania, Prince Lucius Le Crosse I has thus far escaped every life attempt or armed effort to ensure his capture and execution. His younger sister, Ryanna is the wife of Lord Eyrial Elireth through a political marriage. Lucius harbours a deep hatred of those who betrayed his family and a burning desire to reassert himself as rightful king. He possesses a ruthless and calculating nature and an animal cunning few can match or surpass.
Military Power:
A cluster of small independent countries that has gathered under the banner of Valania, the true Valania is the eastern-most country, a land that in the past acted as the first line of defence against the invaders of the Sarife empire. As a province under the protection of the Sarife empire, Valania is afforded the full extent of the empires military and acts as its front lines. It is now under Sarife occupation. Valania’s armed forces were famous for their mastery of horsemanship and the quality of their soldiers’ cavalry maneuvers. Until the previous 3 centuries, Valania's military had a strong tradition of emphasis in the usages of heavily armed cavalry. Before the Kingdom's downfall, Valania's hussars were reputedly unmatched in both speed, maneuverability, firepower, and prowess. Only the knights of Vectis and Vorst could rival Valanian hussars and before the previous century, Valania's knights set a model example for the world's mounted regiments.
Current Climate:
Bankruptcy, poverty, lawlessness, and starvation plague Valanian society, while Sarifen nobles and turn-coat Valanian aristocracy cast a blind eye upon Valania’s troubles. Unbeknownst to many, a great plague also sweeps across the continent, striking upon the very heart of Valania itself. Thousands die by the day, yet the turncoat puppet governor Richter Von Conqvist hides in his palace, indifferent to anything, but the gold lining his pockets. There is a sharp contrast between the standard of living of the rich and poor, leading to deep seated resentment in those who lived under the rule of the previous king. There is much crime and homelessness due to lenient laws, nepotism, and corruption and the Chuda gypsies in particular are allowed to roam free from punishment. As darkness descends upon Altaea, the wiley crown prince Lucius Le Crosse I audaciously maneuvers himself into his next scheme of fabrications in an attempt to salvage what is left of his beloved nation. Though his plans are to bring justice to Valania’s traitors and right the wrongs committed upon his kingdom, the task is anything, but easy as he faces the might of the entire Sarifen Empire. If he is to reclaim the throne and restore Valania to its rightful position, he will need all the help he can acquire from doctors, to physicians, to soldiers, officers, merchants, benevolent noblemen, scholars, and members from all ranks of Valanian society.
The Sovereign Holy Order of St. Melita, or better known by its formal name the Sororitas Melitas is a proto-religious military order, a branch from Augurianity, and shares similarities with Ahmenmnism and its associated Orders. They generally safeguard roads for Augurian pilgrims or worshippers from other denominations and offer sophisticated hospital and medicinal services to beleaguered individuals or followers of Augurianity. Proven members of the St. Melitas Order are generally very capable fighters and mainly excel at mounted combat and close quarters engagements, making them extremely dangerous adversaries.
Principally, they owe some of their financial survival to generous sponsors in Vorst, but are by no means worse off given their self-sufficient services in medicines and armed escort aboard seagoing vessels and land routes. Additionally, the presence of a small Vorstan advisor liason preserves their fighting abilities in horse and bladesmanship.
Further still, the existence of stirrups, have illustrated a terrifying reality that mounted warriors are not to be under-estimated, not especially the Sisters of St. Melitas due to their incredibly versatility. Nevertheless, the Order has seen better days and is a shadow of its former self due to heavy Sarifen taxation, the city's forced Policing Demands, and Governor Conqvist's chartered membership limitations. Some parts of the Citadel Headquarters, or better known as the Krak des Seine-et-Montrésor, have fallen into disrepair due to shortages in membership and in a sense, this has been a blessing in disguise, in that not only would there be competition with join the Order, but only the cream of the crop would gain entry. The Sororitas fields a purely female membership and its Shield Maidens would be afforded greater protection and higher regard from Sarife and the turncoat aristocrats residing within Valania. Generally there are varying ranks within its citadel headquarters in Voltas as well as fortresses bastions and outposts throughout Valania's former territories. Nevertheless, strict laws have dwindled their numbers and lead to the severe locational understaffing as well as power abuses to outposts farther from their Citadel Headquarters.
These matters compound with the Order's unusual aristocratic decrees, in that a title is required for any rank above Valkyrie Apostle. To emphasize, only a woman of noble birth may accept election into the Dame Knight or Grand Baliff ranks. Given that the Order's headquarters resides within Voltas, newer Dame Knight and Baliff promotions are generally complicated due Valania's sparse female aristocratic numbers. As such, only noble born Sarifen ladies or women of foreign noble birth are afforded election into the higher ranks. The resentment within the lower ranks are only checked by Grand Master Domenica and Knightess Captain Rosellia's presence ...
Grand Master - Currently held by Countess Eugenia of Domenica Knightess Commander Captain - Currently held by Lady Rosellia Vaan Lionheart Grand Baliffs - Considered the Senior Leading Officers over various Dame Knight Companies and lead Battalions of up to 600 - 800 Shield Maidens Dame Knights - Officers within a company 200 or more Shield Maidens Valkyrie Apostles - Subordinate Officers under the Dames and leading sectional authorities for 50 - 70 Shield Maidens Shield Maidens - The backbone of the Order's Primary Fighting Forces. Women are assigned different roles and carry different titles for various specialties, both combat and non-combat related. Sister Initiates - Untested Recruits in training and the up-and-coming generations ...
Author's Note: The Order's fictional inspiration primarily derives from the real life Knights Hospitaller (or Knights of St. John) and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (the modern Knights Hospitaller remnants). This information will be updated in the near future following my contributions as well as those of this story!
Sorcery Sorcery is distinguished from magic by its supposed perversion of natural laws while magic is ultimately bound by the laws of nature. Its dark arts and applications include curses and hexes that call upon the sinister and unknown forces of the Aether. A typical example of magic may be manipulating upon natural forces to walk on water or read another‘s mind. On the other hand Sorcery calls upon dark powers to make a victim’s skin decay or bring them utterly under the caster’s thrall. It is rumored and simply referred to by paranoid or superstitious folk as black magic.
Black magic itself is theoretically a potent form of forbidden sorcery which allows the wielder to pervert the natural order, enslaving occult forces and bending them to their will. Long thought forgotten it is primarily offensive in nature, focusing on causing destruction. It also extends to curses and enchantments, allowing the caster to either debilitate their enemies or empower themselves, though experiments over the centuries by so called experts have yielded very feeble or otherwise flimsy results other than fatigue, pain and convulsive suffering.
Black magic was supposedly devised by Victor Le Crosse during his astral studies. It's true nature is not known at this time. The practise of Black magic has largely due to its evil nature, and when used brings pain upon the caster. A small scale spell may only manifest as the sensation of a pin prick while the unpredictable, higher tiered spells and curses can cause pain so unbearable that it can potentially kill the wielder although the same can be said towards intended targets of interest.
Those who practice the forbidden arts of black magic or Sorcery risk potentially losing their mind and as rumored, their soul to the darkness of the void. The power of black magic is drawn from the soul of the caster or that of another victim and overuse can result in them becoming empty soulless monsters, although the same can be said towards drawing out other individuals' souls. A sorcerer will be dogged by malevolent spirits and other monstrosities from beyond the mortal plane for their entire life, and only the strong of mind can resist the influences of these beings. Sorcerers may study the dark arts, but many are born with the innate power. They are shunned by the fearful public for their uncontrolled abilities and many are driven insane by them.
Illusion:
Illusionism is the theory that the creation of imaginary constructs can be achieved through raw, magical-energy manipulation. Depending on the caster’s will power these constructs can range from small, intangible simple objects to large, complex scenes with many independent entities that look, sound, act, move, and feel real. However, these illusions are only that, illusions. They are not real and cannot affect the real world in any way, though they can trick the observer into believing so if used correctly. For instance, an illusory sword cannot cut someone, though it can create a further illusion that the recipient of a wound has been cut as well as the sensation of pain and even death if the illusion is realistic enough. Through enough will power, one can see through a deceptive illusion.
Premonition:
One cannot become a premonist by choice, it is a strange gift that is seemingly granted at birth. Some gifted premonists can exert a level of control over their powers, glimpsing through certain times and places on command, others are slaves to their visions, receiving them uncontrollably. Sometimes the visions are flashes of emotions, sounds or images while other times they are vivid and lucid out of body experiences, in which the receiver can move freely. Further still, there are other times, in which they are abstract and dreamlike, relating only towards a general idea of a situation.
It is unknown to what extent acting upon a vision can change the future. Perhaps it may only delay the inevitable? Maybe it will set destiny on an entirely new course? Or perhaps it will be impossible to change…
Seers
Seeing is believing ... or so others may say. Individuals possessing the ability require immense concentration to even acquire a glimpse into certain areas of interest. Seers cannot necessarily channel their own latent energies into an offensive use, but can offer the rare ability to look into certain parts of the world with impunity. The ability to watch over remote locations through a glass seems to have attracted interest in those wishing to exploit or survey certain locations and many a ruler would pay handsomely to find a seer of even mediocre prowess. As the saying goes, knowledge is power ...
Do you await of players to play individual eventual heroes that rise from not much to save the people? Or is there a possibility that such heroes are found among a lower class of nobles that hold the needs of the people more at heart than the current leading class? For example, a rising in power noble family that want to see the former crown Prince back on the throne would play their cards in order to create alliances and manipulate to such effect from relative shadows, the looming threat of being discovered ever so present. Would that be feasible?
Ivory, I am humbled that you would take interest in this story roleplay and regarding heroes; I encourage the writer-players to roleplay with lowly commoners, but lower classed nobility are also acceptable. Establishing alliances and manipulating the powerfully corrupt in an effort to restore the Crown Prince is also encouraged, but remember to carefully choose who to trust and who to manipulate. In most cases, a recent saying states that: the enemy of my enemy is not my friend; but all the same, the friend of my friend can definitely be my friend 8).
Those with power and wealth are very very intelligent to a fault and can emulate the more nefarious character types from other novel series like Game of Thrones. Alliances can be forged and simultaneously broken should certain parties pursue other interests. Additionally, in the case that Plan A fails miserably, having a plan B, C, D, and even an E can certainly work miracles!
IvoryShadows said
Alright then! I'll think up some ideas while waiting for more people to show interest, hopefully. Also, another simple question, what is the Men/Women state of affair in this world?
Both men and women are allowed to serve as members of various city guards or sacred orders, but society is still patriarchically dominant. Granted, noble born women generally enjoy greater freedoms and social leverage, but are not expected to take up the sword, start a trade, retain ownership over property or participate in political matters. In some areas it is considered unlady-like or even frowned upon to take interest in these arenas despite the fact that women are very capable of holding certain positions. The exceptions would be in Sarife's progressive neighbors, Vectis, Vorst, and Ivalis.
Women born into the common masses are sometimes treated like cattle and generally mistreated. There is little to no justice in North and Northwest Carcassonne and unless there is proper coin, financial leverage, or the appropriate connections, the plight of the wronged fall on deaf ears. Food is also scarce and famines have devastated the previous several harvests. Heavy taxation has also taken a toll on many families and many barely scrape by despite the fact that they perform back breaking work. There are also fewer knights or land owning nobility within Valania than Sarife; leaving a select group of immensely wealthy and powerful aristocrats. The continent is still in the Late Middle Ages and it is up to the people to rise to the occasion.
I'm certainly very interested in this! Sounds like a lot of thought has gone into and just generally sounds like a fun thing to do. Character ideas are just kind of swirling around my mind.
Just a small question; are we each limited to one character or are we allowed to control multiple? Of course multiple would leave open the possibility of some dying... Heh heh. I really shouldn't be interested in the possibility of one of my character's dying. It certainly isn't something that bothers me.
This sounds like a ball. :D I'm a fan of pretty much everything you mentioned/linked to: The Three Musketeers, A Count of Monte Cristo, A Tale of Two Cities, Prince of Persia, Assassin's Creed, Empire: Total War, the various historical eras and cultures—everything! The prospect of playing in a world inspired by it all is very enticing indeed, so I pretty much can't pass this up.
I would echo FernStone's question about the permissibility of multiple characters; if approved, this would make arranging deaths more feasible and we could tell the story from many different fronts and wildly varying viewpoints.
Since the issue of patriarchy was brought up, would it be possible to play a female character who poses as a man in order to enter the army (or what-have-you)? Historically, this has happened many times over and has also occurred frequently in fiction, such as in Shakespeare. Relatedly, this has also gone the other way: Take 'Le Chevalier d'Eon,' who was a real person, as well as the name of a very good anime set in a magical French Revolution. ;)
Also, could you give us some idea as to the culture & relations of the other nations (Vectis, etc.)?
Just FYI, my availability over the next several weekends is highly mutable, so best to assume I'll be unable to participate during those times (though I may occasionally luck out). Otherwise, I'm free.
Fern, dreamshell; thank you taking interest in Altaea and stopping by! I honestly didn't expect many others to show interest and I'm sure there will be many trials awaiting our characters, but I am grateful for the interest.
I certainly am not opposed to multiple characters, but due to my experiences in over a dozen stories; I would like to encourage all writer-players to stick with one character for story's sake due to the strains splitting two characters might cause on one's free time. That being said, roleplaying from multiple points of view could certainly be interesting, story-wise! There are a many possibilities and outcomes and it is up to the writers to determine where the story will be directed!
Deception is a very dangerous tool that can fell even the greatest of warriors so female characters are certainly welcome to pose as men to join the military. It is also plausible for a woman-in-disguise to obtain an officerial position so long as it is not the equivalent of a Field Marshall. Just remember that it would be very difficult to maintain the disguise without proper caution creativity and ingenuity those character types to hide their identities! I would like to mention that despite the widespread sexism there were female knights within Valania's former armies and even lady officers within several prominent Sacred Orders that were left alone by the Sarifens during their campaigns across Valania. One example is Lady Rosellia Vaan Lionheart, who is a Knight Captain of the Holy Order.
There are actually dozens of nations covering the globe and ancient secrets awaiting unravelling, but their conflicts and struggles are largely irrelevant to Carcassonne's struggles. Aside from their warmongering Sarifen neighbors, the Valanians maintained better relations and pacts with the Southern Carcassonians prior to their annexation. The relative relations with their neighbors: Vectis, Vorst, and Ivalis were actually quite cordial before the Kingdom's collapse and I'll list their initial backgrounds here.
Vectis Vectis and Vorst both maintain strong alliance and maintain proper relations within their respective regional realms. Vectis' military is one of world's most disciplined and organized fighting forces despite their numbers in comparison to the Sarifens or the Vorstians. The Vectian borders are dotted with fortresses and the occasional citadel, making their land borders nearly impregnable. The thought of Vectis Legions and King Winsgate II single-handedly storming across the borders and into any territory strikes fear into most other nations. Vectian fencers and blade masters are also second to none with Vorst trailing not far behind. The nation's Tribune Knights are very well trained, cultured, and embody an aura of leadership within the lower ranks. Culturally and traditions-wise, Vectis is a living, incarnation of the Western Roman Empire, though its economy is quite strong and robust. The Vectian Senate is primarily electoral and the Royal Family's (the Winsgate line) position is somewhat ceremonial except in times of war. Justice is much more honest and forthright while civil rights (women's rights included) are also far ahead of most of other Carcassonian nations. The cities are all very well connected and lead towards the capital, Altair while the infrastructure is quite sophisticated, stretching all the way to their heartland.
Vorst Militarily Vorst is not far behind Vectis and maintains strong relations with their Vectis neighbors. They are more known for their economy, which outpaces Vectis by several leagues. Culturally, they embody a strong influence with the Byzantine Empire. Their cultural and arts output has spread throughout Southern Carcassonne and although their society is very structured, it is much less oppressive. Ancient philosophies were known to have originated from Vorst's schools of thought and their medical and science disciplines are very sophisticated. Stemming back from the Age of Nobles; the government in Vorst's capital, Averna, is largely a league of principalities held together by a General Assembly and a wise king named, Sigurd Von Drago VI. King Drago VI maintains a national army that is only moderately larger than Vectis, however, the Lancer Corps are both expansive and highly unmatched. Vorstian Lancers can deploy on a moment's notice and can respond to any threat within a very short period of time.
Ivalis Last and foremost is the largely peninsular-coastal nation of Ivalis, ruled by the stern and somewhat ruthless Queen Athirat Barca I. The Ivalians are unique in that even though their land armies do not compare to Vectis and Vorst; they control a massive and sophisticated navy that not only protects their sea lanes, but can project sea power across the globe in a terrifying fashion. Quite simply, they more known as a trading empire, which bears strong resemblance to the Carthaginians. Midia, Ivalis' capital has long been known a jewel of the known world and their sophisticated dockyards are second to none. Ivalian client colonies have also appeared along other coastlines, making for a formidable power should one draw the Queen's ire. Ivalian society is primarily matriarchal and ruled by a aristocratic, landowning body, known as the Council of Four Hundred and Four. Women dominate all sectors of life and very rarely do men retain land or authoritative positions. For centuries, they have remained the primary maritime power within Carcassonne and their financial output puts both Vectis and Vorst to shame ...
Sarifen Foreign Relations Sarife's current land mass that is somewhat larger than Vectis, Vorst, and Ivalis combined, however, relations between its neighboring nations have been heavily soured following Valania's annexation. Rumors of another war are looming over the horizon as the armies of Vectis and Vorst mobilize around Valania's former borders. Ivalian war vessels have also been spotted performing naval drills along the coasts and several skirmishes have reported to have happened between Sarifen and Ivalian ships. To make matters worse, leaders concluded a session within the Vectisian capital of Altair to form a Southern Coalition. Kings Winsgate II, Drago VI, and Queen Barca I were there to attend and offered their unanimous support to a joint intelligence and military sharing pact. The coming months will forever alter Carcassonne's history and shake the continent for centuries to come ....
Notes:
dreamshell, it's such a coincidence that you mentioned that the whole bit about weekends. My weekends are pretty non-existent given the fact that I have work. Weekdays though? I can usually spare some moments!
Edit: I will wait for a couple days to see if anyone else wants to jump on the bandwagon. I'm thoroughly surprised about the attention Altaea's getting given what I've seen in the Interest Checks board. If there aren't any other peeps in the next few days, I'll start up Altaea with full fledged character sheet signups! I'm open to suggestions so if you think anything cool might fit in with this story, let me know! I won't bite 8)
I tend not to involve myself in group roleplays - mostly go for one on ones and on the rare occasion those with up to four/five people on this site but this did really catch my eye.
I understand about the multiple characters though personally have never had problems with two - in fact, compared to a roleplay on another site, that's a tiny number (I think I have ten characters there... but it is less writing per character and a group I've been roleplaying with for four years). Currently it shouldn't strain my own free time that much because I suddenly seem to have a lot, and I either spend hours staring at a wall or refreshing the guild to see if I have any replies. May change at a later date... but that's what character deaths are for. I have at least two character ideas... But of course only if two characters it completely okay with that.
That is a lot more information. Very useful though. I'm quite looking forward to this now... sounds like there is going to be a lot to explore.
Well, Fern, if you can handle multiple characters, I am certainly not opposed! Ten is a lot, but in certain roleplaying scenarios, that's understandable; in fact, there are certainly going to be a good number of non-writer-player character, or NPCs as they're called. I am aware of the fact that writers struggle between differentiating non-player-writer characters and main characters, but I'll try to keep information about characters and events within a reasonable context. In the event that some of you drop out, I promise that I will go as far as only roleplaying with the last remaining writers. Yes, that's right, I will keep this story active even if there's only one other active writer!
We don't need a massive crew to start and though I encourage quality writing, I'm more of a fan of frequent posting activity. Quality is good, but if it takes 2 weeks to pump out a ginormous post, I'd opt for a decently written, medium sized post of about 2 or 3 paragraphs. I myself struggle with throwing up massive text walls, but I'll try to condense my pieces into digestable material. Writer's block and Writer's indecision can hinder some writers (including myself) and something that's really helped me is setting an rough outline to input what I want to include within my posts. Afterwards, I just, write, write, write!
I'm certainly not going with 10 for this - I'll probably just stick to 2 main characters. I don't think I'm too bad at differentiating between NPCs and MCs (almost said PCs... That's more of a tabletop term I think). Certainly sounds great though... And it's awesome if you're willing to keep it active until then! I'm certainly not planning on dropping out unless life gets in the way. Shouldn't happen
I definitely agree with the frequent posting - and it doesn't necessarily take away from quality by making posts shorter. I also think its easier for getting actual interactions between characters. Medium sized posts work best for me... Anything too long becomes too much like writing a story by myself, and I do that plenty as it is. That's an interest way of writing roleplay posts actually... I tend to dream about roleplayed and formulate replies in my head. Writer's block tends to only happen when I'm writing stories rather than roleplaying
But yeah I agree with medium sized more frequent posts
Funny you mentioned that Fern! There were incidents last year where I spent 1 or 2 + days crafting and editting posts in other story roleplays. I've also dreamed about my own characters and the worlds I've written/crafted. Medium posts, from my experience, tend to be the sweet spot and ... I've been struggling with condensing my own material into something manageable. It's been something that's an ongoing learning process and I think that there's always room for improvement! Over the years, I've learned that less can be more and outlines certainly do help for moving past Writer's Indecision. It would be my pleasure to deliver as cinematic and believable of a story experience to all interested writers and however long we keep this story going, let's all grow as writers, yeah?
Edit: If any of you have writer friends willing to join, don't hesitate to invite them to join in! As the saying goes: the more the merrier. I will, in the mean time, look into inviting other writers and drafting a map of Carcassonne, but ... no promises on anything!
Another question, though I might very well just have skipped over it as I read those massive walls of explanations. :P You often mentioned the word ''Holy'', and I have been wondering; whats the statue of religion through Carcasonne? You said late middle age and on the verge of entering Renaissance. I know that it was around those times that people began having second thoughts about religion, even going as far as having rebellious thoughts against the Papal institutions.
Also, the way you said it, Vorst and Vectis are exactly like Constantinople and Rome? West and Eastern Roman Empire, so to say. Should we consider their story to be close to the roman empire, which mean one and same empire that split in two, or does the resemblance stops there?
Ivory, yes uhm ... I should have mentioned religions and the existing deities. There are various religions throughout Altaea, but only 3 within Carcassonne. They are the Ahmenmnian faith, the Zendriatianism, and Augurianity. Some members of the common masses have long begun to question the validity of their respective faiths, however, incessant wars and famines still force many to cling to superstitions!
Millennia ago, before the Age of Nobles, two supernatural beings of immense wisdom and power arrived alongside other magnificent deities. They came to visit Carcassonne's supreme leaders and soon to be kings and queens of the rising nations that would resemble Sarife, Suitania, Atla, Vectis, Vorst, and Ivalis. One called himself Yadin-Hamon, whilst another revealed herself as Athirat; their combined presence and scorn towards the warring leaders' ways imparted such terrifying magnificence and splendor that the warring leaders halted all hostilities and kneeled under the immortals before pledging a promise to bring peace and wisdom to their beleaguered peoples. Afterwards, Yadin-Hamon and Athirat both departed and the next day, the leaders not only retreated their armies to their respective realms, but pledged peace in Yadin-Hamon and Athirat's names. A religion revering the two beings spread across the land, however, as time went on, disputes over their importance began to form. The Sarifens and the Valanians splintered off to form Zendricaanism, whilst the Vectisians, Vorstians, and Ivalians followed what became known as Augurianity. Sometime later, disputes within Ivalia lead to yet another split and soon the Ivalians formed the Ahmenmnianastic faith, or better known as Ahmenmnianasticism.
Sarife The Sarifens primary worship Zendricaanism, which features several angelic and demonic deities. The religion bears a roots to Zoroastrianism and in the fact that there is one male god. Zendricaanism bears some similarities to the Augures Pantheon and the Ahmenmnian faith due to the deities, traditions, and beliefs, however, Zendricaanists strongly believe that Yadin-Hamon, as the one true god over the other deities.
Vectis, Vorst, and Valania Most Valanian subjects, Vectisian, and Vorstan citizens worship the Augures pantheon. There are quite a few deities and similarities towards the Ahmenmnian and Zendricaanist faiths, however, Augurianists believe that Yadin-Hamon and Athirat are equals. There are several large bastion fortresses within Sarife and others within Valania itself that still worship Augurianity. Lady Rosellia Vaan Lionheart is the leading Knight Captain of the Holy Sisterhood Order of St. Melita, a dominant Augurianastic sect located within a citadel residing behind the walls of Voltas.
Ivalis The Queendom of Ivalis is largely matriarchical and follow the religious of Ahmenm. Ahmenmnian worshippers follow one deity; the One Goddess Athirat. All the same, Ivalis is unique in that women own land and hold prominent positions over men, so much so that they are highly revered.
Bear with me here; I will be adding more information to each religion after I've finished my drafts!
By the way, Ivory, regarding your question about Vorst and Vectis; in a sense, you certainly could compare Vorst and Vectis to both Constantinople and Rome. Vorst and Vectis were formerly part of a powerful Diarchy, however, major disputes over religion, politics, philosophies, military emphasis, and financial allocations led the brother monarchs to form mutual secessions. The two nations still maintain a strong alliance, however, their progress and development as major cultures have drifted into two completely separate civilizations 8).
Thanks for all the supplemental info, GI! Not sure what I want to play yet, but I'll get to work on something starting Monday. Your call if you want to provide a character skeleton of some sort. ;)
IvoryShadows said
Thanks, that's a lot of good infos right there. :) How much people do you want for this roleplay?
Yes, yes, Ivory, the information is quite extensive and for now I don't want to bog everyone down despite the fact that I have more saved in my library. I think we've got a strong story base so I think we're just about good to go! Player-writer wise, I wasn't sure if anyone was going to show any interest, but instead, you, dreamshell, and Fern came around and I may have two other writers and possible more joining us within the next couple weeks! For now, it's us four musketeers so I'll probably wait another day before we begin 8).
dreamshell said
Thanks for all the supplemental info, GI! Not sure what I want to play yet, but I'll get to work on something starting Monday. Your call if you want to provide a character skeleton of some sort. ;)
Sureeee, why the hell not?! Let me just dig it up andddd ... voila
Name: (Don’t need to explain this one) Age: (How old your character is) Race: (What species your character is) Nationality: (Where your character was born) Allegiance: (Whom your character is loyal to) Religion: (Pick one of the three) Appearance: (Either a picture or written description will suffice) Profession: (What your character does for a living) Biography: (Your character’s background) Notable skills/abilities: (Specialties, trades, skills) Other Notes: (Other notable qualities, histories, or background that are worth mentioning)
If requested, I will supply a character sheet for several specific characters. For now, go nuts and have fun brewing one or several characters! As always, I am here to help if you're idea stricken or hungry for clarification on certain informational tidbits!
Character sheets aren't expected to be super elaborate, but if you all want to go all out, by all means; aim for the stars! There are possibilities aplenty and it's up to you writers to decide what sort of characters you'd like to insert into this story!
Oh ... and uhm ... don't mean to keep beating the horse, but I would like to re-emphasize that this story is mainly about Valania and Sarife so for now, your main characters must at least be Valanian or Sarifen 8).
Currently away and on my phone do its difficult to fully reply to any of this but wow very extensive info. All the writing thing sounds awesome and definitely think it'll be great to grow together as writers. Unfortunately don't have any writer friends I can think to invite
Thanks for the character sheet! I'll start working on stuff when I get home but ideas are already brewing. I'll probably actually make a few and then decide which I like most. I have one character that I'm already auite excited about so yeah I get invested in characters. And I'll make site to remember that they have to be Valanian or Sarifen ;)
One question... For races, I mean, is that just human? Or did I miss something on that xD
FernStone said
One question... For races, I mean, is that just human? Or did I miss something on that xD
Yes, that's right! Despite the fact that there are other races residing within Ivalis and Vectis; for the most part, only human beings exist in Valania and Sarife. I will, of course, be bending this rule in the near future for storytelling purposes, but only just!
