This section allows you to view all posts made by this member. Note that you can only see posts made in areas you currently have access to.
Topics - Ne'er
1
« on: April 11, 2010, 02:21:57 am »
This post is in regards to this thread. http://forums.layonara.com/character-submissions/268562-new-character-submission-aldemar-roc.html#post1613862----------------------------------------- Perhaps I am reading to much into this, but I am finding this process to be borderline absurd. In my first submission, the only initial critical response I was given was that Aldemar was too powerful. And this was nearly a week after posting. I was then told to update several other things that, while I thought them insignificant, I was more than willing to work around. Yet now I am being told that there is no evidence that he is evil. Why was this not brought up after the initial submission? I did not dumb down the evil between submissions; the morality section remained unchanged, meaning that in that first full week that I am to presume this was being "discussed" no one noticed a problem with his level of evil. Instead extensive detail was given to me that my concept of teaching himself to read is unrealistic. Which brings me to my second point: if I hadn't brought this up anything about Aldemar's literacy, but still had him come from a farming family it would have been assumed he was literate. Every character on this server is assumed to be literate, and it would almost seem to be the case that one would need to specify if they were not. Yet my biography is still being slowed down because a story of a character teaching himself to read is unrealistic. I should also mention that historically, man intelligent people have taught themselves to read with very simple materials, very smart people. A character with an Intelligence score has roughly an IQ of 160, well beyond genius level. I think it is fair to say that over several years they could accomplish this task. But I suppose in the end it is not my decision. Finally, it was over a week ago that I updated the submission, with no updates, no mention that it is being reviewed: nothing. Why? Is it so difficult to simply let someone know that something is being discussed? What really makes this so utterly incomprehensible to me is that after all that time, I was informed that the information provided in the original bio was not sufficient, and a full 2 weeks after submitting the character I am finally informed of this. I worry that even if I did continue to update this biography with every request I would not get a character approved until mid-June. I understand that it is more difficult to get an evil character approved, but taking a few minutes to look through the Character Submissions and Recent Approvals shows that many characters, not just “special” are suffering from approval lag. It's not that some bios just take a while, it really just seems like approvals are moving slowly. I guess what my real, final criticism is just in regards to this character approval system. It is unfathomable for you to force people to get characters pre-approved if you continue to have such a slow response rate and such high approval standards. It is just not sustainable. It kills any excitement a player has for their new character. On March 26th I was very excited to rejoin my brother in this online world, and I was fantasizing about the various fun activities I could get involved in. I eagerly refreshed the page every 20 minutes. Then a few days passed, and I got less excited. Of course, it was rejuvenated when I was finally informed that about my character, and I was willing to make the changes. But now, 2 weeks out from the excitement, I now could care less about this character, as the process of getting it approved has been such a bore and such a headache that instead of developing a detailed character that was well-thought out and interesting, I'm left submitting drafts of a biography that are being reviewed with higher standards than my political philosophy professors hold. Not too mention, they can get back to me faster. The final point is that I truly question the usefulness of this system. If you cannot respond in a reasonable time frame or make it relatively easy for characters to be approved, then you are going to kill excitement. I was once a GM myself on this server. I greatly enjoyed working on this server, and I was very much looking forward to coming back with a character that would be a lot of fun for me to play (as a DM in a Pen and Paper game, villains come much more naturally to me than heroes, so I submit evil characters). As a current college student, I know how difficult it is to balance all these things. Which is why I suggest re-evaluating this system, and considering lowering the bar, taking on more character approvers, and have some kind of formalized process. None of this “oh, by the way, your character is not evil enough. Sorry we didn't tell you 2 weeks ago.” You're going to stop new characters from coming in, and you'll kill the excitement of older players or returning players. Something needs to change about this system, otherwise you're going to find that not only will this current version of this server suffer, but you're going to have trouble getting people to pay to wait for 2 weeks, especially if you are trying to capture the roleplayer niche of the MMORPG market. And please don't tell me that the process is so intensive that it cannot be done quicker. 4 years ago when I played here regularly character submissions were approved or updated almost always within 3 days, and never got beyond a week. I remember L giving all the GM's permission to approve characters just because they had been backed up, and this was when the oldest submission was approaching a week. Clearly submissions can be approved quickly, yet somehow this process has deteriorated. I know that Layonara is better than this, I've seen it. I am sorry if my tone appears sarcastic or angry, I assure my intent is not to hurt any feelings and I really do offer most of this criticism with the hope that the Character Submission process will be re-revaluated. I'm posting this in both General Discussion and the Character Submission. Consider my submission of Aldemar Roc withdrawn.
2
« on: July 17, 2007, 07:30:29 pm »
*A leather-bound book rests within the pack of Nicolai T'alsun. Never does he leave the book open, unless he is certain he is alone. Never does he allow another being to look upon the words he writes. The book is black, with a silver lining the edges, and the writing within is written in a deep black*
3
« on: February 20, 2007, 02:25:09 pm »
Dropping in to say hi to one and all. Lots of names I don't recognize, but that's to be expected. I'm considering submitting a new character, but don't know exactly what yet... so, hey everybody?
4
« on: October 23, 2006, 01:13:57 pm »
Hey everyone. As most of you have known I have been a GM here at Layonara for roughly 9 or 10 months now. It has been one of the most amazing and fun things I have done in my life, and I would just like to thank everyone whose been on my quests, or who heled me along the way. I want to thank Leanthar for setting up and devoting so much time to such a great place, as well as the other GMs for all their hard work.
Unfortunately, I have had no time to think lately, much less DM for the team or get in and play in game, which some of you may also have noticed. School, work, and just life in general have reared their ugly heads and at the moment I really don't have the time to run quests and have the stress of helping to keep this world together. So I have decided to step down from the GM team.
I would like to apologize for those of you on the Trilogy of the Orb series. I had a blast with all of you, and I really wanted to finish it. Sadly, it wasn't in the cards.
And I guess that would be all. So for one last time "Go now, and do not return"
*the Admiral salutes and sails off into the sunset*
5
« on: September 26, 2006, 03:53:39 am »
Will be postponed by a week due to me being busy. Sorry for any inconviences.
6
« on: September 05, 2006, 05:35:09 pm »
**a small black book rests within a brown satchel strapped to the side of a man wearing a brown robe. He does his best to appear non-descript, but at many times accidently draws attention to himself trying to cover his face. Those who glimpse his face notice his incredibly pale white skin, and red eyes. His very appearance appears... fiendish.
He keeps the book hidden deep within his satchel, letting only himself know of its existance, and making doubly sure that no one takes the pack from him.
The man moves into the darkest corners of town, keeping himself in shadows and averting his eyes from light. The man acts oddly, but keeps to himself, doing his best not to disturb those in passing.
When he writes, he writes alone in the dark. He has grown accustomed to this lighting. his writing is neat and clear, and occasionally maps are included, and notes arewmade in the margins. But mostly it includes accounts of his travels and affairs...**
7
« on: August 22, 2006, 03:25:18 pm »
WANTED: Terrance "The Axehandle" Ferrin Described as a human male with tanned skin and brown eyes. Should be considered armed and dangerous. Wanted for murder and smuggling withing the city limits of Hurm. A reward of 5000 gold coins and the gratitude of The Seven Swords is offered to the person whom brings the head of the Axehandle back to Hurm. Any and all seeking this bounty should first report to the patrol office in Hurm for more information. A penalty of up to 1500 coins may be charged if you have not met with an officer in Hurm first. Joel Kallihan Commander of Hurm **the seal of the Seven Swords decorates the bottom of the poster** ------------------------- http://www.layonaraonline.com/forums/calendar/event-view.asp?eventid=2281&year=2006&month=8
8
« on: August 17, 2006, 06:34:02 pm »
I find myself wandering still, still searching for my place in the balance, still hoping that my words will inspire some others to hold at least a little more respect for nature and its many bounties.
This time, after wandering in the Sielwood Forest for roughly a week I find myself within the small town known as Hlint. The place seems to be quite poplar and rests on a well-travelled road in the central area of Mistone. Overall the town seems quiet enough, and many of those present in the town seem rather ignorant of their actions against nature. However, a few do seem to hold proper respect for the natural world and it is good to see like-minded people in the area.
There is one building in the town that stands out among the others. There is a crypt, one that houses undead abominations. Local adventurers seem to make a habit of 'cleansing' these crypts, when in fact it appears they do no more than destroy the undead for practice and loot the bodies of the dead. I will admit that it is not against my own interests, as the undead are destroyed, but I find it interesting what the true motives for many of these adventurers is.
My own belief is that the crypt should be torn down and opened once again to the sunlight and the air. The unnatural aura in that crypt will then fade and the dead will likely cease to rise up again from the grave. But I fear for now my plea may fall upon deaf ears, as many of the towns folk find themselves engrossed in their money-pouches and want for trade, or in their own personal affairs. I shall have to take my time with such actions, I suppose. Nothing in nature is instantaneous after all.
Unfortunately the town appears to be plagued by parasites on different ends. Goblins make their homes outside the town and kobolds live in caves not far either. The two races are little more than parasites, sucking the life from the world and simply growing and breeding until a place cannot support them any longer and then they move on. I worry that one day we humans will become nothing more than parasites on this world. Hopefully we will catch ourselves before that time has arrived, and hopefully whatever damage we do will not be beyond repair.
I can only hope.
9
« on: August 14, 2006, 03:00:09 pm »
**a poster rests on the wall of the Pirate's Cove inn in Hurm**
Wanted:
A man named Teel has recently dissappeared in from the city of Hurm and any who seek gold or fame would do well to hunt this man down. He is wanted for the theft of Commander Young Kilping's precious gem collection, failure to cooperate with authorities, direct defiance of an officers orders, and the assualt of several local law officers.
He is described as a male human of a strong build, usually wearing a hood. He has blue eyes and brown hair.
Anyone with information as to his whereabouts will be rewarded with no less than 1000 coins of gold. Anyone whom brings his head will be rewarded with no less than 2000 coins of gold.
Should a bounty be claimed, or more information requested, please seek out Officer Brian Kent of the Hurm Authorities.
**The seal of the Seven Swords takes over the lower part of the portrait**
2nd Assistant
Commanding Officer
Brian Kent
10
« on: August 03, 2006, 09:06:10 am »
** on the inside of cover of this book it reads **
"The road is the only true place to feel free."
**the story then begins on the next page**
A vagabond by nature, Ne'er has found himself travelling the lands of Mistone as of late. He makes his living by performing his music, praticing his magic, and engaging in artistic swordplay. Others see him as an entertainer. He sees himself as an artist. Regardless, it is enough for him to make it from day to day by performing for others. When he gets bored with one group of people or with a certain place he feels no compulsion to stay longer. He moves on, be it to another thrill, or another place to see and experience.
But how does a man become a vagabond? Some are born into the role, travelling with family and knowing no life besides the road. Others adapt to the life, be it for the hope of glory, fame, honor, or wealth. Yet neither of these were the case for Ne'er. Born into a traditional elvish family, Ne'er grew up only knowing of the world between the fence at the egde of his yard and the sign that reading "We hope you enjoyed your stay in Kheldell." His father was an alchemist, one who worked hard all day, and many nights in order for his family to make end's meet. His mother was a simple seamstress. She made little money, but she didn't care. She loved her work, and wouldn't quit even if she made no money.
As a child Ne'er appeared to become bored with the life he and his family led in Kheldell. His studies to follow in his father's footsteps as an alchemist slowed, until they eventually stopped entirely. No more did he take lessons from his mother on how to sew and work fabrics into something of use. Some in the town believed that Ne'er's heart was elsewhere, and that he sought a different, perhaps better and less routine life. But those who knew him best knew that this was not the case. He had always been an apathetic person, someone who simply couldn't hold interest in something long enough to devote his life to it. His family frowned on the lifestyle that he was beginning to live. They wanted Ne'er to find his true passion, to find something that called to him, something that a profession could be forged out of. So they told him to set out on his own for awhile, giving him a backpack and some simple supplies to last him for a few days, and asked him to return when he felt he was ready. He never returned.
Ne'er did find what he believes to be his "true calling" out on the road. However, it is not something that he can return home to his family with. He found that he lived for the road, that he lived to travel, and to never stay somewhere longer than he needed or wanted to. While he travelled he could feel free to practice any trade that he wanted, be it magic, swordplay, or music. On the road he was truly free, and on the road he planned on starting his new life.
"I travel because I feel it is right for me. Just as a cleric preaches because he is drawn to his deity, and just as a wizard studies because he is drawn to the magic, I too travel because I am drawn to the road."
Almost any that meet Ne'er would consider him a charismatic person. His personality is one that, while may be considered odd to some and foolish to others, is one that is harder to forget. Ne'er leaves an impact on the people he meets, without even really trying to do so. Some even consider him a likeable person and vastly enjoy his company. Also, many find his artistic side quite impressive. Many say he has a beautiful voice, and others find his abilities to mix his spells and his swordplay together fascinating. But Ne'er remains an outcast from society by choice. He rejects the lifestyle simply because it does not appeal to him.
Ne'er has been commented on occasion of his knowledge of local events throughout Mistone, as well as for his ability to gather bits of information from people. This is all just information he happens across on his travels, most of which is useless. But occassionally, he stumbles across something that piques his interest...
"Just as the sun sets and rises, so too do I leave for another journey. Perhaps adventure, wealth, fame, or death await me down the next road, but the only thing that will truly matter is that I have the opportunity to take in the scenery before I reach the end of it."
11
« on: August 01, 2006, 10:18:37 am »
Just curious as to what sports people like to play out there, be it on a team or just for fun with friends.
I like to play lots of sports, so the only ones I'm going to include are the ones that I compete in for my highschool, which are Track and Cross Country.
12
« on: July 02, 2006, 08:35:52 am »
Jet's stuck at the top of the mountainside in the West Blackford Castle Outskirts, and he's considered using the waterfall as a waterslide.
On a related note, any reason why these jumps up mountains have been occuring more frequently lately?
13
« on: June 30, 2006, 06:12:19 pm »
I was wondering first, is the alignment restriction on Tieflings a hard and fast rule, that all Tieflings must be of a choatic alignment? I wanted to know if there were any suggestions (i.e. a multitude of good reasons displayed in the bio) or if there were absolutely no exceptions.
And my suggestion, if the answer to the question above is that all tieflings must be chaotic, regardless of any reasons presented in a bio, that this should be changed. I think that, like orcs, drow, and other generally evil creatures, that it should be need to display a reason why the creature is different than others of its type.
Also, I had always thought Tieflings were more compelled to be evil than chaotic, and that some tieflings were the spawns of devils, which would make them more lawfully based. I have not read that this is different anywhere in the tiefling description. As such, it would only make sense that those tieflings that descend from devils are lawfully inclined.
A good story should be able to override the restrictions, and provide proof that a creature could be an exception to the general rule. For example, the character idea I have been thinking of trying out would be a tiefling monk... however, due to the restrictions it is not possible for a Tiefling to play a monk, even though a good story and reasoning could be used to show why a tiefling would end up as such a class.
Also, as a final point, there are only two options for a tiefling to play for an alignment. This is Chaotic Good and Chaotic Neutral. Since Chaotic Neutral is a restricted alignment for newer players, it doesn't seem to make sense that there is only one playable alignment for a new character. However, I suppose this could also have been done on purpose to restrict the number tieflings in the world.
All in all, I'll be fine if nothing is changed, it just seemed to me like the rule could be revised a bit.
--Ne'er
14
« on: June 30, 2006, 02:48:17 pm »
A Whip was found on the body of an elven bandit near the city of Hurm. It was determined that it strikes with the force of iron and has the ability to confuse the minds of those that it strikes. Since I, nor any I know directly, have any great use for this weapon, it will be sold to whomever offers a decent price for it.
For more information, contact Jet.
/////
The whip is +1 with on hit confusion
16
« on: May 14, 2006, 06:06:48 am »
A warnign to all travellers: Shadows have been spotted in and around the area of Hlint, as well as Leilon. Be wary of shadows along the roads or in those locales. The reasons for these attacks remain at large, so it is recommended you travel safely and well-equipped.
Be careful on the roads.
-A Fellow Traveler,
Tarran Ta'flor
17
« on: April 19, 2006, 05:40:32 am »
Sightings of "squid people" have occured in the Haven mines. While these sightings have have not yet been confirmed by the guards, all those that frequantly travel through Haven and into the Haven mines are advised to take extra care.
Also, a bounty has been placed on the heads of anyone whom brings the head of one of these squid creatures to Lord Rodor or Officer Kit will be rewarded with a bounty of no less than 300 coins of gold. An investigation is uinder-way involving this incident, and more news will be reported as it is discovered.
~~Issued by Lord Rodor of Haven Castle~~
18
« on: April 17, 2006, 04:53:54 pm »
Sorry for anyone who was planning to attend this. It completely slipped my mind, and by the time I realised it I was out of town and not going to be back in time. Sorry again, I'll reschedule for as soon as I can. 
19
« on: April 10, 2006, 03:44:03 am »
I won't be able to make this quest, so I've postponed it until next week at the same time. Sorry for any confusion.
20
« on: March 20, 2006, 02:40:14 pm »
This quest is going to have to be pushed back 30 minutes due to some RL things. The start time is now 6:30 pm EST, or 11:30 pm GMT.
Sorry for any confusion.
Ne'er
|
Forums
Show Posts