[OOC] A Cold Wind Blows...

[ButtsnBalls]

Just wondering about the context. Ex. Are people hunting with firearms or bows? Was Russia actively internationally as an empire, or relatively isolated as a smaller Tsardom? But yeah, fantasy seems like a good background, I'm all for player-established cannon.

[Lillian Thorne]

I was just contemplating that myself. Hunters/players? What is your take on the matter?

I had thought bows or crossbows for simplicity's sake and because it makes the ambiance better in my mind. But if the hunters/players want to have firearms, so be it. (Their enemies will as well)

Russia as a whole was largely isolated on purpose for a good long time so I was keeping that air of isolationism (as can be seen in the build of the village). Amusingly enough the article (have I mentioned this before?) that inspired this whole thing was set in Georgia and I may take a Georgian map and modify it at some point. You'll see in the OP that I didn't actually name the land or the Tsar. It is the land, it is the Tsar. All because of this isolated mindset.

[Numerica]

Here is my proposed bio...

Mokley, I included the ideas we had shared for Chiudka and Tjasa's relationship, I hope that is OK?

I am open to ideas and suggestions for improvement.

Name: Tjasa Kuznetsova

Age: 17

Appearance:

Tjasa

Tjasa has dark red hair (darker than the picture) and green eyes. She is fairly tall for a woman, but not exceptionally so. She both loves and is good at sewing and embroidery, so her clothing is always well made and intricately embroidered (even when it is not practical for it to be so).

Occupation:
Tjasa serves as her father's housekeeper and cook since her mother's death, and in general does all the womanly tasks for her household, which consists of her father, and herself. She also dyes cloth and thread for other women.

History:
Tjasa's mother, Bronislava, was a beautiful woman, and Jaroslav (Tjasa's father) had a great deal of competition for her hand, at least by village standards.Tjasa was born within a year of their marriage, and Jaroslav, who as the village smith was, and is, a large and intimidating man, proved to be a gentle and loving father, if a bit overprotective. Branislava's sister Chiudka also took a shine to Tjasa.
Except for the normal childhood woes, all was well with Tjasa's world until her tenth year. Her mother took ill over the winter, and gradually wasted away. Tjasa, and Jaroslav, were heart broken. Tjsa took over the role of woman of the house under Chiduka's guidance. Many young women would resent this, but Tjasa has no signs that she objects. It needs to be done, after all.
Tjasa has a reputation for being absent minded and quite curious, or as the old women put it, nosey. They mutter that on one of her trips into the woods to gather plants and berries to make into dye, she will wander so far investigating this and that, that she will forget her way home. She is also a little soft spoken.
Tjasa has inherited her mother's beauty, but seems oblivious to any efforts to gain her favor, which is just as well, for Jaroslav has made it quite clear that he will have a little 'talk' with anyone attempting to court her without his hard won approval. The old women of the village mutter that if Jaroslav isn't careful, Tjasa will end up a spinster like Chiduka.

[Lillian Thorne]

Looks great!

I'll be adding a list of NPC's into the OP for ease of recall. Such as family members etc.

I'll have a few generic villagers made up that are fair game for players to use but if you need a role filled in the course of the RP and it isn't taken, just throw out a name and we'll put it in the list.

[Kraft]

Name: Petya Vukašin
Age: 19
Appearance:

Petya

Occupation: Hunter
History: Reserved Petya only really finds the solitude of the hunt to be the one fulfilling purpose in his life. Fatherless at the cusp of adolescence, and motherless at even a younger age, Petya has been raised by the steady hand of his elder sibling, Vasily. A brother who, in well meaning manner, has attempted to fill the void of an absent father, much to Petya's own stubborn resistance.

With the passing of Vasily's wife, Anna, the distance between the two grew, having both lost another person in their lives close to them, Petya further retreated from Vasily's reach and more aloof from the village. Fortunately, Petya is a rather competent hunter; able to afford being away from the village for hours at a time without anyone passing judgement, it is here where Petya feels most most useful, most comfortable. Garbed in warm fur, bow held firm and arrow ready to fly, hunting is one of few things Petya understands.

[Igraine]

So good to see more character sheets! I was actually waiting for yours Kraft, before I fleshed out mine a bit further with Petya. I'll go ahead and edit in just a bit

eta: edits done, and so glad you liked that bit there with Oskar, Lil! It just seemed right to me, and helped make yet another connection in Adishi.

[Lillian Thorne]

Looks great Kraft!

Igraine, you know how I love those connections!

If we get a few more CS's up I can see us launching this weekend if that works for all. Anyone have an opinion on the whole "to gun or not to gun," issue?

[Igraine]

*thoughtful chintap* Honestly Lil, I have no opinion one way or the other, and would be more than happy to roll with either. My character, however, is far more likely to carry an axe than a bow or a gun either way, so it may not matter all too terribly much either way

[Mokley]

Heeyy I'm out for a day and return to a bunch of delicious characters! Numerica, absolutely brilliant -- I'll try to relate everything in mine. Also, it seems everyone's using photographs -- allow me to be the odd one out!

This turned out to be terribly long, but I wanted to include some info that might be beneficial to you, Numerica, regarding Tjasa's grandparents, etc. I tried and failed to shorten it.

Name: Chiudka Gusakov
Age: 31
Appearance:

Chiudka

Occupation: Healer, Babysitter, Storyteller, Liar -- but mostly she tends the house, the cabbage and the chickens

History and other things:
Chiudka is no longer the shy and restrained romantic she had been before her sister died. Bronislava had been the prettier one, the smarter one, the funnier one, the popular one. She had had a doting husband and a beautiful child, and was everything their parents had ever wanted in a daughter and everything every man had ever wanted in a wife. They had clamored at the door, written terrible sonnets and sung even worse; they only ever gave Chiudka flowers when they asked her to deliver them to their precious Bronislava. Chiudka had alternated between idolizing her sister and despising her -- until finally, Chiudka had directed so much quiet, jealous hatred toward Bronislava that the beloved wife and daughter had fallen ill and died. Chiudka has confessed this to no one but the priest of the White God, but is convinced of her guilt.

It was out of guilt, at first, that she took her motherless niece, Tjasa, under her wing, as if she were her own. The child reminded her of herself: quiet, distant and curious. It was that curiosity that Chiudka did her best to encourage: she showed Tjasa a few tricks of the healer's trade, which her own father didn't know she knew. She continued her sister's lessons in mending and cooking. She told stories about the old ways, the Witch, and the creatures that lived in the mountains. But mostly, she listened.

Her parents (Tjasa's grandparents) are Kisel and Gostiata. Kisel continues to be a great friend and trusted healer of most of the village, both human and animal, through his herbs and his surgical skill as well as his charms and prayers. Though he had never officially allowed Chiudka to learn the trade, she had from a young age taken it upon herself to learn it anyway. She has only rarely demonstrated this knowledge in public; she shouldn't know it, after all. Since Bronislava's death, Kisel has been less friendly and more dedicated to his work that ever before. Gostiata, his wife, has been forgetting things she has no business forgetting. Chiudka has been quietly picking up where her mother has begun to fail. Both Kisel and Gostiata dote upon Tjasa as if she is the sun and the moon, which Chiudka supports wholeheartedly.

Chiudka is known most of all for her habit of stories and lies. It is not done maliciously, nor does she have anything to hide -- but she speaks before she thinks, and she says things that aren't quite true or are exaggerated to a fantastic degree. She used to do this as a child when she wanted to grab attention from her sister, but it's stuck so deeply that she has learned to embrace it: she is a favorite among the children for her stories, her ridiculous answers to impossible questions, and her own childish love of adventure and whimsy. Of course, it also means she is not well-trusted among the adults, who second-guess almost everything that comes out of her mouth -- which is another reason she's hesitant to claim she has any skill beyond chasing chickens. She's afraid of being called a liar when she finally tells the truth.

[ButtsnBalls]

Looks like you guys are pretty quick on those sheets; now its time for me to join in.

While everyone's trying to connect the dots between villagers; I feel like a foreign character will add another dimension to the story.

---

Name: Coskun Tuccar
Age: 26
Appearance:

Coskun

:

Occupation: Travelling merchant
History and background: Coskun hailed from a land in the south, where great Sultans ruled an ancient empire. As the only son amongst the Tuccar daughters, Coskun lived a relatively comfortable childhood, thanks to the shrewd businessmen known as his father and uncle. As a child, Coskun distanced himself from his family's work. Instead of learning trade-craft, Coskun read from his family's small collection of books and frequented himself on the arquebus range. Though he was neither an adept marksman nor a proficient author, the young Tuccar was self-motivated to be a man of books and gunpowder, rather than coins and ledgers.

During his twenty-fifth birthday, his father and uncle were absent from the celebration. It was only two weeks later that the news of their unfortunate demise reached his ears. A freak storm in the mountains claimed their lives, and per family tradition, Coskun was the only adult male to inherit the business. Later that year, Coskun was dragged by his uncle's partners onto his first trip north. He was initially pessimistic about the trip, anticipating nothing but snow and wind. Instead, he found the folks quite fascinating and complex. Their folk tales reminded him of the stories from his youth, and the robust spirit of the people inspired Coskun in many ways he never realized. In the end, the men of his caravan scorned his lackluster bartering. But Coskun realized that this trip would not be his last, indeed, the culture of Adishi edged him to return.

[Scoundrel]

I hope I'm not too late for this. If there's an available slot for a newcomer, I'd be happy to plug my character in! :D

[Lillian Thorne]

gcold said
Looks like you guys are pretty quick on those sheets; now its time for me to join in.While everyone's trying to connect the dots between villagers; I feel like a foreign character will add another dimension to the story. : Coskun Tuccar: 26: : Travelling merchant: Coskun hailed from a land in the south, where great Sultans ruled an ancient empire. As the only son amongst the Tuccar daughters, Coskun lived a relatively comfortable childhood, thanks to the shrewd businessmen known as his father and uncle. As a child, Coskun distanced himself from his family's work. Instead of learning trade-craft, Coskun read from his family's small collection of books and frequented himself on the arquebus range. Though he was neither an adept marksman nor a proficient author, the young Tuccar was self-motivated to be a man of books and gunpowder, rather than coins and ledgers. During his twenty-fifth birthday, his father and uncle were absent from the celebration. It was only two weeks later that the news of their unfortunate demise reached his ears. A freak storm in the mountains claimed their lives, and per family tradition, Coskun was the only adult male to inherit the business. Later that year, Coskun was dragged by his uncle's partners onto his first trip north. He was initially pessimistic about the trip, anticipating nothing but snow and wind. Instead, he found the folks quite fascinating and complex. Their folk tales reminded him of the stories from his youth, and the robust spirit of the people inspired Coskun in many ways he never realized. In the end, the men of his caravan scorned his lackluster bartering. But Coskun realized that this trip would not be his last, indeed, the culture of Adishi edged him to return.

This is a very interesting character but he's not going to fit for the RP. I said from the interest check on that Players would be taking the role of Villagers. There is a reason for this. The isolated atmosphere, the close-knit ties are important.

Mokley said
Heeyy I'm out for a day and return to a bunch of delicious characters! Numerica, absolutely brilliant -- I'll try to relate everything in mine. Also, it seems everyone's using photographs -- allow me to be the odd one out!This turned out to be terribly long, but I wanted to include some info that might be beneficial to you, Numerica, regarding Tjasa's grandparents, etc. I tried and failed to shorten it.

Apparently I missed posts everywhere. She's lovely, I'm glad you didn't shorten it, all those wonderful details will be fun to work with.

Scoundrel said
I hope I'm not too late for this. If there's an available slot for a newcomer, I'd be happy to plug my character in! :D

Not too late at all! I'm waiting for a few more characters before I start the IC (maybe this weekend, depending on CS's). So take a look over the OOC, particularly the OP and my many ramblings, see what you'd like to play that would fit among the current characters (who I should stick into the OP for ease of finding).

[Scoundrel]

Looks like everyone--or mostly everyone--are closely related in some sorts.

But anyway, here's my CS. Hoping to have a baker boy spark some joy. (hey that rhymed!)

__________________________________________________________________________

Name: Tristen Yalik

Age: 19

Appearance:

Tris

Occupation: Full-time baker, occasional hunter.

History/what you think we should know about your character: A frequently loud-mouthed young adult who lives life by the means of his ambitions. Ambitions which are often mustered by the foolish, or at least that's what his father had told him. Tristen may often be observed as a naive, reckless, ambitious and an imprudent individual at first glance, but in truth, he is a brave and bold young man who believes that there is a possibility in achieving what foolish men had dreamed. He would always refuse traversing through pavements of hopelessness and envision that conflicts and challenges in life are simply just pillars to one's dreams/goals. Overall, there is a positive bright side which he kept from time to time, and that side of him is what he often uses to withstand the harshness of life.

Having a natural talent in baking, Tristen wasn't entirely convinced of what was achieved by that talent as it wasn't originally what he wanted to do all of his life but he wouldn't say that he disliked it. Ever since he was in his pre-adolescence, he wanted to travel, go to different places--places which his eyes haven't yet set upon. Sadly, his obligations and the everyday discouragement he received from his father were often keeping him away. But it didn't stop Tristen from dreaming. In fact, every ounce of discouragement would fill his eagerness and determination to achieve what he wanted and knowing that only mere words would come out from his father's actions, Tristen wouldn't be as discouraged as expected to be.

Tristen was the only child of a woodworker named Zelfos Yalik and a seamstress by the name of Laris. At the age of 4, Tristen's mother died of illness during the winter season and it was the main reason why his father would often be seen drowning in mugs of ale or raising his harsh voice against his son. It was something they both couldn't prevent and looking through that meager fact had completely saddened them. Tristen, however, moved on from that incident and decided to live his life accordingly and somehow achieve something for the sake of his mother's death. His father, on the other hand, went to the worst measures. From developing an excessive drinking habit and intentionally discarding his woodworking duties, he now depends on what his son could earn from the likes of baking. More often, he would pressure his son to earn as much as he desired just to purchase a number of ale to fill his contentment. But Tristen wouldn't allow himself to be demanded for something worthless. He would still obey his father but only up to the point of his tolerance. One thing he solely wished was for his father to move on and if it wasn't difficult, Tristen would do anything to help.

[Lillian Thorne]

Very nice, I like it. However there is one problem, one of the PCs already has a Smith for a father. Is there another role you could cast the father in? Plus names for relatives are helpful since everyone will know each other.

I'm going to be making a list in the OP with blurbs for each of the NPC's. I'll bold the ones that are free for use or some similar demarcation

[Scoundrel]

Lillian Thorne said
Very nice, I like it. However there is one problem, one of the . Is there another role you could cast the father in? Plus names for relatives are helpful since everyone will know each other.

I changed it to woodworker, if that's convenient enough. I felt like having a blacksmith as an NPC father was becoming a bit generic for my taste but either way, this is fiction. ;)

[Igraine]

Actually Scoundrel, the reason most everyone seems to know one another is a feature, not a flaw. From the beginning Lillian wanted people to know one another as Adishi is a remote village, and as you've seen, some of us have coordinated back and forth to make this happen! The reason for this, is that our dear GM despises loner characters, those angsty emo fringe hangers who invariably attempt to suck all the air from the proverbial room of the RP. Loners often try to get other characters to chase after them, distracting from the main plot line, only to find out "what's wrong this time" while simultaneously never having the least bit of worthwhile character interaction with the rest of the group - unless, of course, it centers around their character's endless emotional turmoil. *big fat eyeroll*

I should probably mention, I despise these types of character myself

With that said, if you Scoundrel, or you Gcold, would like to have some type of interaction, past or present, with my character Vasily, I would welcome a PM with any ideas on your respective parts. Vasily is already a very skilled carpenter/woodsman/forstmeister, so perhaps Gcold, your merchant might be interested in finding a market for Vasily's wares or something along those lines? Hey, why not? Throw out anything, I'll bite!

And if you Scoundrel, would like Vasily to, say, have apprenticed or some such under Tristen's father, or the like? Why not again?

In addition, I've noticed that thus far there are at least three male characters of approximately the same age (Petya, Tristen and Oskar). From past experience, I can tell you the fun to be had among three inseparable guy buddies is wonderful! Lots and lots of fun *grins*

[Scoundrel]

Igraine said
And if you Scoundrel, would like Vasily to, say, have apprenticed or some such under Tristen's father, or the like? Why not again?

I like this idea! I'd say, let's make this possible. I'll PM you with an idea or a few details on how their past interactions could work once I come up with one or if you could, then feel free to drop me a PM. :D

[MelonHead]

Lillian Thorne said
Looks great Kraft! Igraine, you know how I love those connections! If we get a few more CS's up I can see us launching this weekend if that works for all. Anyone have an opinion on the whole "to gun or not to gun," issue?

I love fables and stories and would like to jump in on this, but my two-cent on the gun or not to gun situation is historically Russians maintained archery (particularly Ol'fashioned bows) long into the firearm age. Probably because guns were so expensive and unreliable at the time. So there's no reason why both can't exist, though hunters would almost certainly have preferred bows. It wouldn't be unrealistic to say there just isn't anyone rich enough to have a firearm in the town.

(also, as an aside, when I first saw the banner I thought it was depicting Master Chief in a winter coat, and now I can't unsee it.)

[Igraine]

Scoundrel said
I like this idea! I'd say, let's make this possible. I'll PM you with an idea or a few details on how their past interactions could work once I come up with one or if you could, then feel free to drop me a PM. :D

Uh... I'm going to translate this to mean, that you'll be sending me a PM, Scoundrel? Whatever ideas you have, we can play with, not a problem.

And thanks for weighing in there Melonhead - I think Lil liked the idea of bows and crossbows anyway, so it should all work well *thumbs up* Looking forward to seeing your character!

[Lillian Thorne]

Settling in after a little early afternoon RL drama I find such lovely activity in my OOC!

Scoundrel said
I changed it to woodworker, if that's convenient enough. I felt like having a blacksmith as an NPC father was becoming a bit generic for my taste but either way, this is fiction. ;)

I appreciate your flexibility and am glad you are in talks with Igraine. Consider yourself accepted.

Igraine said GM despises loner characters, those angsty emo fringe hangers who invariably attempt to suck all the air from the proverbial room of the RP. Loners often try to get other characters to chase after them, distracting from the main plot line, only to find out "what's wrong this time" while simultaneously never having the least bit of worthwhile character interaction with the rest of the group

I cannot believe I did not mention this in the Interest check or OOC. But yes, no Loners allowed (not that I really see any as of yet!). I am a very flexible GM, but for a few things, loners and people who hold up RPs by not posting are two insurmountable ones.

Igraine said In addition, I've noticed that thus far there are at least three male characters of approximately the same age (Petya, Tristen and Oskar). From past experience, I can tell you the fun to be had among three inseparable guy buddies is Lots and lots of fun *grins*

Oh yes, I can add that watching that past experience unfold that it was a treat to watch. I am open for connections with Oskar and Oksana, just say the word here or in PM.

MelonHead said
I love fables and stories and would like to jump in on this, but my two-cent on the gun or not to gun situation is historically Russians maintained archery (particularly Ol'fashioned bows) long into the firearm age. Probably because guns were so expensive and unreliable at the time. So there's no reason why both can't exist, though hunters would almost certainly have preferred bows. It wouldn't be unrealistic to say there just isn't anyone rich enough to have a firearm in the town.(also, as an aside, when I first saw the banner I thought it was depicting Master Chief in a winter coat, and now I can't unsee it.)

I'm inclined to say no guns, largely for the last reason you mention: Money, and really bows will be more than enough.

You are welcome to write up a CS, we haven't launched yet. Just peek at he CSs already submitted to see what is taken and have at it, keeping in mind connections are encouraged.

Also, I am not overly worried about historical accuracy, I'm going more for ambiance, but having some yardstick to measure against isn't terrible, I just won't be chained to it.

(Oh and the banner is from two different pieces by a children's fairy-tale artist/author Trina Schart Hyman as well as a third, ominous element from Russian Fairy Tale)