While I haven't heard of Dragonlance that's essentially the stereotype for Gnomes in this world. They are actually considered great innovators, but their preference for solitude politically as well as a life underground tend to produce socially awkward denizens. That's not to say all Gnomes are this way, but it isn't uncommon.
Typical naming conventions for Gnomes in this world are typically based on Russian names, but long names are fine by me. Just as a side note Gnomes are the innovators of gunpowder and controlled demolition!
There is an overarching plot that involves the characters of the story preventing a cataclysmic event from happening (it deals with the Pantheon). However, the characters can choose how they get there and how they prepare for that. In this sense the aforementioned larger plot is important, but not entirely at the forefront (if that makes sense).
I want the quests to be open-ended, and the group as a whole to decide how to handle certain conflicts. Essentially though your characters will embark on gaining allies (or, depending on your actions unwilling aid) to deal with the impending crisis. It'll be up to everyone how they want to approach this (though I will provide guidance through characters, quests, items, etc.)
Sorry if that's long-winded, but think of it like Skyrim. The final story is important, and you're building towards that, but there is also a huge world that you'll be interacting with on your journey. I can elucidate further on the plot if need be, but I was hoping not to give away too much.
I guess maybe the "nation" tag was slightly inappropriate. I had used it because through roleplaying your characters have the potential to make huge decisions for the world (installing puppet rulers, deciding monarchs, etc.) The focus of the RP is more about questing, but politics and the like is also really important.
Sorry for the confusion! Maybe I should remove the nation tag?
Also, I completely forgot to add them as a playable race! I'm so sorry haha. If you check out the map (High Mist) you'll see they do have a Kingdom. So Gnomes are definitely playable
Edit: I went to add in Gnomes and realized they were already listed! Also, if there is any other race or creature someone would like to RP as feel free to run it by me (things like Vampires, Werewolves, Goblins, etc).
@vertigh0st Awesome, glad to see someone interested! If you'd be interested feel free to run a character idea by me!
I kind of want to run the RP with a mix of gaming, tabletop, and typical text RP. Basically there will be a multitude of problems/quests for the players to solve in whatever way they see fit. The OOC (and PMs) will be used to discuss strategy, diplomacy, etc. I don't plan on having rolling or anything like that, but I do want to try and heavily incorporate player choice.
The world of Ithea is a wondrous one; fraught with powerful nations and technologies that aim to shake the foundations of this realm. Be it the High Elves of Valenndale, the Orcs of High Mist, or the humans of Carthus and Penult. This tale is one of triumph, exploration, and conquest.
Beware the misty glimmer of Ithean shores; not all is at it seems. For even the owl's ivory feathers may be plucked, and the wolf's fangs, dulled.
"Ah my homeland; never have I seen such a diverse ecosystem. The fauna, the flora- even the people. Carthus is a marvelous continent to behold, such a beautiful landmass inhabited by some of the most innovative societies in all of Ithea." Professor Copernicus Plumbottom-- The Essential Ithean Atlas
Carthus is considered by most contemporary scholars to be the center of the world. It boasts many of the world's most powerful empires, and its capacity for trade is matched only by Valenndale. Carthus has a diverse climate with ice-lands located to the far north-west, thick forests and wooded areas, rather warm coasts, and an even warmer southern tip.
Carthus is divided into four major countries. This includes two human nations of Astoria (highlighted in red) andVicelles (highlighted in purple), and the dwarven kingdoms of Viguard (highlighted in yellow) and Ostguard (highlighted in blue). Additionally, there are smaller wood elf encampments scattered throughout the continent.
To the east of Carthus is the recently re-named. Alexandrian Ocean, and to the west is the Oceana Abyssal a untraveled toxic body of water whose depths remain unexplored.
"Valenndale...the envy of the world. Its lush green jungles and mysterious forests make scenic routes equally breathtaking and dangerous. The elven kingdom is truly marvelous- shrouded in archaic magics and ancient architecture." Professor Copernicus Plumbottom-- The Essential Ithean Atlas
Valenndale (commonly called the Dales) is a continent that is home, largely, to the elven people. Ellvenaan, the kingdom of the elves, is one of the largest nations in Ithea. It rivals the dwarven kingdom of Otmanguard in size. Valenndale is also home to a conflation of human city-states often referred to as the Caracas League. The Dorvanhun or the Heartlands are home to the largest wood-elf encampment in all of Ithea. Not all tribes are friendly to outsiders, beware.
Valenndale has a moderate-to-warm climate. The lands feature mostly heavy forest areas, but south of the heartlands, there are jungle areas teaming with a diverse wildlife population. The Caracas League is a huge trade conglomerate, and are subject to Ellvenaan taxes, but the high elves of Valenndale also get resources from their mercantile colony in Penault.
"Penault is a land that feels ominously aware of itself. The arid sands of the Huhueteotl Desert swim with an eerily lifelike tenacity. The Dwarven people have no doubt conquered many parts of the land, but as the people of Le Feu Mot have seen first hand- there is something far more ancient that dwells in these sands...in these jungles and plains. " Professor Copernicus Plumbottom-- The Essential Ithean Atlas
Despite its reputation, Penault is one of the most historically relevant continents in all of Ithea. The continent is home to the Otmonguard Dwarves (highlighted in white), the Valenndale colony of Ellemau'nan (highlighted in gold), the Kingdom of Le Feu Mot (highlighted in red), and the Penaultish Wilds- inhabited mostly by Dark Elves and other mysterious creatures.
Lining the west coast, are two major historical fortresses. The Great Summit was once used to rally war-torn worlds and nations together under joint cooperation from world leaders. The Londessellan is an ancient elven fortress. Penault has a far warmer climate than most other continents, with vast desert regions, savannas and the jungles to the south.
"The land of High Mist is teeming with exotic beauties and peculiar peoples. To stunning jungles and volcanoes, to blood-soaked shores and desert lands trapped between titanic mountain ranges. High Mist is a wonder to behold; if you can survive it. " Professor Copernicus Plumbottom-- The Essential Ithean Atlas
High Mist is quite different from many of the other lands of Ithea. Nowhere else can one find volcanic activity and the red soils south of Tiefling territory. The major territories of High Mist include: the Orcish kingdom of I'Canxu (highlighted in magenta), Koponbect- the Gnosmish Kingdom (highlighted in tan and charcoal), and Babel home to Tieflings (highlighted in red). To the north of High Mist are the Fleeting Isles dense jungle islands that are inhabited by wood elves, humans, and half-elves. The people of the Fleeting Isles are often taken as slaves by the nations of High Mist.
Many parts of High Mist are still unknown to contemporary scholars as travel through the lands is scarce and quite difficult. Perhaps, one day others may be able to uncover more secrets of High Mist.
"Never have I traversed lands so foreign as the arctic deserts of Crysteria. The trees, ice, and snow are a brilliant mixture of white, blue and emerald green. The trees and the hills are lined with wondrous crystals, and strange orb structures that feel of a different realm. If you can travel far enough into the Frostfoot Marches, you'll find two of the most interesting nations in all of Ithea. " Professor Copernicus Plumbottom-- The Essential Ithean Atlas
Crysteria is an arctic continent that has remained habitable for only two nations. The landmass is home to the People of the Trident (highlighted in blue), and Britheria home to the feline race known as the Brith. Crysteria isn't completely frozen, despite popular belief. The People of the Trident live in an arctic tundra which gives them a pivotal position on the continent. These human tribes are forced to pay- in resources- tribute to the powerful nation of Britheria. Crysteria's Frostfoot Marches are perilous and thus there are still vast areas of the continent that remain unexplored.
Human- Humans are the most populous race in all of Ithea. This race is dominant in five nations, and is prevalent still in other nations. Humans are known for their ability to adapt and survive. While they aren't as physically strong as the average Orc or Brith or as magically attuned as an Elf- they make up for it by showing promise in all fields (strength, nimbleness, magic, etc.).
High-Elf- High-elves are an incredibly powerful race known for confidence in their people. The High-Elves hold an impressive kingdom in Valenndale that nearly spans the entirety of the continent. High-elves are known for taller height and a slim-build; this is accompanied by sharp facial features. Their ears are far shorter than their elven cousins. High-elves are also known for their prominent affinity for magic. Not all high-elves possess magic, but it is slightly more common among this race.
Half-Elf- Half-elves are the result of one elven and one human parent. They are typically somewhat smaller than the average human, but much thicker than the average high-elf. Half-elves typically inherit similar (but softened) facial features from their elven parent, but always have human ears. Half-elves are more likely than most to fall within an intermediate level of capacity for magic.
Dwarf- Dwarves are a short yet brutish and powerful race. Three Dwarven empires span all of Ithea, all somewhat similar in governing style and religious beliefs. The Dwarves are skilled crafters, and incredibly fierce warriors. Many militaristic innovations and strategies were created by them. What they lack in stature they make up for in endurance and durability.
Orc- Orcs are one of the least populated races in all of Ithea. Their kingdom is located in High Mist where they dominate the northern region. Orcs are known for their ferocity in combat, their overwhelming strength, and a bloodlust rage unmatched by other races in all of Ithea. The Orcish people are incredibly skilled warriors- rivaling the dwarves in military prowess. Orcs are generally fearless and crave battle.
Gnome- The Gnomes of High Mist are another of the least populated races in Ithea. Their territory is unique in that most of their major cities are located underground. The Gnomes are considered to be the pioneers of technological advancement, particularly in architecture and transforming their environment (controlled demolitions, black powder, etc.) Gnomes are similar in height to dwarves, but are far less robust. Where as dwarves are hardy and sturdy, gnomes are much frailer.
Tiefling- Tieflings are a race of people that live predominantly in High Mist. This race is the least common of all races throughout Ithea, but they still boast an impressive population (especially in High Mist). Many people believe that the Tieflings are a people cursed by Gods (hence their red skin, and horns). Even many Tieflings believe this to be true. Many people in Ithea would think the Tiefling are barbaric, and in some ways, perhaps they are. However, upon further inspection- one would realize that they are a rather advanced race of people who are afraid of what they are and what that might mean for the world and their culture.
Brith- The Brith are a powerful race of feline-humanoids (resembling bulky leopards or tigers). Many reside in the frozen wastes of Crysteria in the empire known as Britheria. Natural conquerors, the Brith at one point held large amounts of territory throughout all of Ithea. Their defeat at the hands of a Dwarven and Human alliance forced the Brith's empire to shrink. Still a mighty empire in its own right, the Brith are renowned for their naval capabilities. Brith are typically very large (though not always), rivaling Orcs in size. Despite the average, among their race, the Brith are about as diverse as humans in color, height, weight and facial differences.
Wood-Elf- The wood elves are a variant of high-elves, though still classified as the same race. Wood Elves have historically been pushed back- their territories reduced to designated encampments in the wilderness. Wood elves have a greater affinity for magic even when compared to their high-elf cousins. They are typically adept at survival, especially in wooded areas. Wood elves have much larger ears, and softer features when compared to high-elves. They also often have facial tattoos representative of the clan or family that they hail from.
Halfling- Halflings are the offspring of dwarves or gnomes with a human or an elf. Halflings make up a small minority in Ithea, and often work as entertainers. Halflings are known for their agility, and their small stature. It makes for excellent performers, and deadly warriors. Halflings don't have a large nation behind them, but are rather just scattered throughout all of Ithea.
Dark-Elf- Dark-elves (or Drow) are another variant of high-elves, and as such are still classified as the same race. Dark-elves are believed to be the children of Dark Seldarine, the evil deities of the elven Pantheon. Dark-eves are widely discriminated against with societal challenges similar to Tieflings. While the history of the dark-elves is shrouded in mystery it is undeniable that dark-elves are more attuned to forbidden magics (necromancy, blood magic, etc.) though some would argue that they are driven to use this magics because they are treated so poorly throughout Ithea. This is certainly the case in most societies. Dark-elves are often taken into chattel slavery in high-elven society, and in human societies they are often indentured servants.
I will work with each player to help them figure out which abilities they would like to have. The most adept and hardy of classes. Warriors typically use shields, swords, hammers, etc. Warriors can range from the might champions of Ardent's Watch or of Babel to a mercenary that fights for coin. Fighter Knight City Guard Champion Mercenary Paladin
I will work with each player to help them figure out which abilities they would like to have. Thief Assassin Duelist Gunslinger Arcane Trickster Swashbuckler
I will work with each player to help them figure out which abilities they would like to have. Arcane Tinkerer Alchemist Saboteur
I will work with each player to help them figure out which abilities they would like to have. Beast Master Huntsman Monster Hunter Mage Hunter
I will work with each player to help them figure out which abilities they would like to have. Valor Lore
I will work with each player to help them figure out which abilities they would like to have. Beserker Totem
I will work with each player to help them figure out which abilities they would like to have. Open Hand Shadow Four Elements Long Death
I will work with each player to help them figure out which abilities they would like to have. Constitution Mage- Healing magics and barriers. Peaceful Aura, Barrier, Cure Wounds, etc. Divine CLerics- Holy magics; magic potential channeled through the Gods. Guidance, Light, Cure Wounds, Bless, etc. Destruction Mage- Elemental spells; Fireballs, Shock, Frost. Illusion Mage- Magics used to trick the mind; Calm, Fear, Illusion Constructs, Invisiblity. Pact Mage- Magics channeled through a patron; Mage Hand, Eldritch Blast, Blade Ward, Chill Touch, etc. Primal Mage- Druid and nature magic; Rock Armor, Shapeshift, Summon Swarm, Petrify, etc. Necromancer- Controlling the dead through magic; Power of the Dead, Raise Zombie, Spirit Mark, Walking Bomb, etc. Blood Mage- Graverobber, Hemorrhage, Blood Slave, etc. Force Mage- The manipulation of gravity, force, or pressure
“To the unobservant the great nation of Astoria might appear mundane. Its numerous port cities, and complex interwoven trade routes would bore most travelers or common folk. However, Astoria is arguably the zenith of contemporary human society. With the mightiest army in all of the Six Kingdoms and the second (or third depending on your source) largest economy- Astoria is a nation that demands great respect. Much of these accomplishments are due to the efforts of the royal Chamberhill House who has reigned in Astoria for over four generations.” “Professor Copernicus Plumbottom--The Essential Ithean Atlas
Astoria is one of four nations in Carthus. Highlighted in red on the political map, Astoria is ruled by one major house. House Chamberhill currently holds the throne with little in the way of political opposition from minor houses throughout Astoria.
Towns and Cities Cambridge: The capital of Astoria, and home to the Chamberhill estate.
A major port town in Astoria, and the city where our adventure begins.
"Vicelles is the colder distant sister of the other great countries inhabiting Carthus. While the state is comprised mostly of humans the dark soils and ever-present wandering moonlight beckon much stranger bedfellows. The noble houses of the land are in constant turmoil with perpetual feuding over birthrights as constant as the mists that bathe every village and city of the country. The aforementioned noble families remain loosely bonded in solidarity only for the wondrously dreadful abominations of the fog.” -- Professor Copernicus Plumbottom-- The Essential Ithean Atlas
-- Hello, potentially interested RPers! This was a roleplay I had tried getting started some time ago, but unfortunately some players ended up not being able to. A fun, expansive, inclusive RP is something I'd really love to get off the ground. The roleplay would take place in a pre-industrial and high fantasy world. I would love a small group of players to help build and shape the world through RPing. The roleplay is more than just adventures and I'm willing to take ideas/suggestions.
I am also glad to help anyone create characters/backstories or provide clarification for anything confusing! Ask away if you have any questions or interest! Also please try not to be intimated by the maps/races/continents/info. As I said, I can answer any questions you might have. I'll expand on some of the lore and how some aspects of the RP would work if there's interest. I'm heavily inspired by games such as Dragon Age, Elder Scrolls, Dragon's Dogma, etc.
Name: Continent of Birth: (Carthian, Penultish, High Mister, Crysterian, Valenndalic/Dalic) Race: (Human, Orc, Half-Elf, Elf (Wood, Dark, High), Tiefling, Gnome, Dwarf) Class: (Bard (or Enchanter), Fighter/Warrior, Rogue, Mage, Ranger, Barbarian, Monk, Paladin) Mage School of Foci: *For Mage characters only* (Constitution, Divine (Clerics), Destruction, Pact (Warlock), Primal, Necromancy, Blood, Force) Starter Equipment: Age: Personality: Character Traits: *five-six words that might help me better understand how your character interacts with the world* Ie. Perceptive, Brave, Intuitive, Trusting, etc. Strengths: Weaknesses: Fears: Brief History:
I've been reviewing this RP, and I feel so badly about how it ended. It was completely my fault, and I'm so sorry for going inactive. I made a ton of mistakes with this RP. If I hadn't made them it probably would've went much better.
I shouldn't have included my own characters as trainees. The reason I had originally done this was because this story is actually a comic idea of mine that I'd really like to see pan out eventually. What I should have done was create another group that allows the player characters to be focused on rather than my own.
I think I also accepted far too many people into the RP which made everything far too overwhelming for everyone involved. It didn't help that I was dealing with some pretty bad family stuff at the time. Overall though I just kind of left everyone hanging, and that was pretty lazy and rude of me- so I'm very sorry.
I'm not sure if anyone is still subscribed to this thread, but I thought I'd offer this apology for the RP not working out. Maybe in the future another RP in this universe could work (with some quality of life changes). My intent though, was to apologize for this RP rather than promise a new one. Thank you all for your participation in the RP, and I'm sorry closure on this has taken so long.
