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Messages - Bralock
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1
« on: January 13, 2005, 03:53:00 pm »
Well hasn't this thread grown rather large in less than 24 hours...
I can add a couple of thoughts here I guess.
Firstly I think there is quite a bit of a difference between clerics and paladins. Clerics are the voices of the gods and paladins are the enforcers (whoever said that brought up a good point) and normally clerics will have a weapon but their place is not to necessarily be fighting and certainly not within melee range all the time. Paladins are by nature warriors, holy warriors. There is a reason that paladins can only come from four groups on Layonara - Toran, Aeridin, Vorax, and Lucinda and the point of being a paladin is an enforcing role. I can see why a paladin would might use a quarterstaff if they follow Aeridin but they are limiting themselves in their warrior role. It might be something they would prefer to do, but not necessarily something that could be done and allow them to fulfill their duty properly. I know that Layonara is very heavily based on PnP and I admit I have played more 2nd Edition than 3rd, so this change with clerics using anything but blunt weapons is unusual to me as well. I can see why some gods might rarely allow them to use a longsword or such, but most of the clerical weapons were maces and staves back then. A paladin was always more of a warrior, and hence they wore the platemail, had the shield, and the sword at their arm. I am not saying that a paladin should not be influenced by their deties preference of certain weapons but I do think that sometimes leniency should be given to paladins. For an example, with Aeridin it would make sense for them to use a sword (as that is the staple of many paladin weapons) but certainly not a large sword or axe as the Church actively detests such maiming weapons. One could argue maybe they would also use a mace because it would cause less bloodshed. I think that if this is the case though there should be a seperate category created in the handbook for clerics and paladins. The colours? Certainly! Paladins and clerics both are out there to promote their god, so that would apply to both, but I just do not see it with the weapons.
I may be wrong, I would need to look it up, but I had thought that followers of Lucinda prefered to use enchanted weapons. I believe they favoured robes and staves, but the main point was to be heavily enchanted. Whether it is an enchanted sword or staff (to which I think both Celgar use) I am not sure if this is wrong. Enchanted in appearance (visual appearance) or effect (actual damage done) I am not sure which is important for the server. Obviously at lower levels it is hard to come across enchanted items in either case.
Now, before I go off of the cleric thoughts I would like to say that you will find some characters which are more fanatic and less true to their gods. I am not saying that these people should not have penalties, but it should be the playerbase also enforcing this. For example, there are more than enough clerics of Lucinda running around - if someone such as Celgar was seen as not necessarily doing the right thing (and I believe with him being CN he actually shares the same alignment as his deity - which is another matter of importance, closeness of alignment to your deity) then the higher clerics of Lucinda, Serenity for example, should be actively pointing out his lapse from the dogma and perhaps offer counciling if he is so "troubled" to be wavering from faith or such. I also will use my cleric as a follower of Aeridin who does not want to see things harmed for better or worse. Sure, there are times when a life may be taken in self defense as there is no other choice... However, if my cleric was go see another follower of Aeridin (cleric or paladin) going out causing wanton death and destruction for the sake of "training" then she sure is going to have something to say! I think you will find many characters that will have different degrees of faith in their god, as it should be. If everyone was a fanatic then it would make all clerics/paladins of the same god the same. However, you do need to be sure that players are following the restrictions for their characters. I think that is a very good distinction, to ensure the players are following the deity roleplay more so than the characters are.
No, you cannot buy a quarterstaff from the vendors, so I will make sure that it's reported. When I first started I created a wizard and I wanted a staff but all I could find was a dagger. Like Lonnarin I did learn in time you could use the fishing rod as an alternative but I really would like to see something different. It looks the same as a staff and can even be customized to look metal and such and still work, but it's not very realistic. I have recently been playing a new cleric of mine and I am once again using a fishing pole... *sigh*
Ok, and last, but certainly not least...
Sorry Zhofe I really have always seen Quin as a paladin and not a cleric as well. I can for all of the reasons listed above and I think you probably know it yourself by some of the things you have said. This does not mean that Quin cannot change and after a CDQ become a cleric, but certainly if he was to be as he is now he would be a paladin. By your words, "Quin is pretty much a paladin now, but without the abilities." CDQ's are life altering changes in the character's life and certainly when religious, their faith. You can do pretty much anything with a CDQ to make him more "holier" and maybe even take a step back from the fighting, or you can always have his faith waver with his newly found love as he is pulled towards another deity. I really have a lot of thoughts about Quin from the very little I have actually seen of him (especially as of late) but in the end it is the direction you want to take him. It is the role of the DMs here to see that your decison fits in with the realism of the world, but in the end you can justify any change for him - that is what good roleplay is all about.
3
« on: November 18, 2004, 09:55:00 pm »
Perhaps the townsfolk are becoming more accustomed to me, or at least I am to them? It is not an easy question to answer, though the point that I am beginning to converse a bit more freely is of comfort. I realize I have lead a sheltered life, despite the wonders that I have been taught.
Having no success with my daily meditations to Aragen I remembered one of the priests mentioning how the gap between life and death is often the strongest way to reach out to deity. This is often why some indulge in herbs and such to put them in a state similar to a conscious dream. With this suggestion I went to the cemetary to find a way to deal with this link between life and death, particularily as the dead walk again in the crypts beneath.
There I met with two strangers, performers as they set themselves to be, who had some sort of inner connection between themselves. At least I did not manage to follow most of what they inferred. Introduced as Ash and Ambryn they seemed to be very similar in many ways but certainly quite different from myself. It seemed a good opportunity to discuss some things though aside from the recent arrival of another person to town (which I cannot help but feel has also been summoned by the dragon also) to which I took the time to show what the town offered. I may not have been the most entertaining method to learn of Hlint, but at least it was rather thorough.
Returning to the inn later I met with Ash and Ambryn again. There was another there as well, to which more Ash knew of than Ambryn. Quite an odd fellow, he seemed to be a bard as well though was not quite the same again. Ash certainly has a playful personality, one which I cannot say I completely understand. When referring to insults he made it would seem the intention was merely banter which he then uses to play off and cause amusement for others around him. I do not understand this form of entertainment, nor will I claim to in any way.
Ambryn was regarded as being much more experienced of the lot, though her cool and gentle demeanor was more reassuring than Ash's harsh jokes. As I mentioned, they seemed to compliment one another. I would say they also both have been brought by the great dragon, for as Quin had mentioned before it seems obvious at a glance but when you try too hard to notice such things it is missed too easily. Quin is much wiser than he claimed to be, a pity as he seems to be so well known that even Ash has met up with him. A bright future he holds, I shall have to seek his council in future.
Upon seeking out some branches to fashion some musical instruments Ambryn and I made our way back into the town to notice a commotion near the town centre. Something had happened regarding a search for sylvan oak in the Sielwood forest. Not much else of the information was gathered before the group left except the person seeking this was Erag, the notable man in black who skulks around the town. Ambryn feels that he is watching her, and I feel she may not be wrong. A strange person with a somewhat friendly enough demeanor though there is simply something not quite right about the way he carries himself.
Unfortunately I am left with more questions than answers after this encounter but despite this I may actually be developing some sort of kinship with these bards. I certainly have much I could learn from them, as Ash himself had pointed out. I have always been told that bards are the friendly sort and very worldly as they often travel so much. I do not seem to worry how people will regard me here, but for three years I have travelled and kept myself distant due to my self proposed exile. I shall not see that happen again here. The cost is too high, much more so than my pride such as before.
4
« on: November 17, 2004, 08:38:00 pm »
It is still taking me some time to get accustomed to this strange town. I thought at first that it was due to my upbringing, as I never did spend much time in the village where I grew up. I would tend to say that it is something more though, and something dangerous.
After being chased by the goblins north of town, to which they began to swarm me, I was helped by a kind stranger and a young girl. After engaging in a brief conversation with them, and thanking them for their timely rescue, we had met up with some travelling dwarves, brothers it would seem. The dwarves took the girl and I into the goblin caves. I'm not entirely sure why, but it did seem to prove a good adventure, for those caring about such things. It also allowed me to mine some copper, which is why I believe the dwarves had wished to go so deep to begin with. I felt as though I did not contribute much to the battles below, but at least my bow aided me by keeping me safe and allowing something to do be done.
After this we made our way into the town again where again we met with the red haired man that had saved me earlier from the goblins. Quin, it would seem, was quite well known by the local townspeople. Perhaps what was amazing was the revelation of some facts. Seemingly many others from the town had experienced a similar encounter with this golden dragon as had I, and were brought here for the same purpose. Yes, the dragon had spoke of such, but there was no outward indication that I was near the beginning or the end of the list of recruits.
This leaves for some interesting theories, and even deeper reflection on the meaning of everything involved here. Quin, a quite capable warrior despite his modesty, mentioned his devotion to Toran. While he pays little heed to this I cannot help but wonder if the dragon is some representation of our very deities. However, Quin had also mentioned of dark elves, ogres, and orcs which have been brought to the defense against the coming threat as well. Though I would wish to have an answer to this bizzare puzzle I can see that it shall take further investigation.
Perhaps only Aragen can grant some meaning to all of this. I shall need to meditate on the subject and seek His wisdom.
5
« on: November 15, 2004, 02:55:00 am »
Kalan Lanishal
7
« on: June 24, 2006, 06:52:58 pm »
I hope that there are still the odd post out there to thank the GM team for their hard work, I know there always was. I just felt a need to stop by and post another thank you. My characters are always something special to me, both in memory and design. It has been 20 months now since I had created a character on Layonara, and it has been 16 months or so now since I have been gone.
I love to return and read my character submissions and posts on character development, and even reflect back on my old photos and comments left in the album. I find it amazing that with the boom of development that has been seen here, the players who have come and gone, that there has still been a way to keep the entire history of the world and even the insignificant events (i.e. my characters) that do not matter to a whole.
Thank you, I am amazed and very grateful.
8
« on: January 15, 2005, 03:17:00 pm »
Once she was outside of the town gate Lonnalisya felt the wave of nausea strike her again. She trembled on the spot and when looking down at her hands saw that they shook uncontrollably. Whispering quietly so only she could hear her own words, "I cannot, I shall not..." She noticed some travellers coming towards the town and before she had decided she had already set off at a run. She did not know where she was going because she had only just arrived in the town. She had been warned to stay on the roads, for there was danger everywhere else. Upon seeing some merchants travelling down the path infront and a large forest to her left she unconsciously fled to the trees to avoid being seen. She could not take confronting anyone now.
She thought back to their words again, the elf like her and the dark "cousin" which both agreed. The words still haunted her. "You will learn to kill, or you will be killed. Aeridin has given you the power to kill and if you do not use it wisely Blood's army will take over the Mistone." She closed her eyes tightly, as she remembered, gripped by some unimaginable pain. It was difficult enough to see that both this elf and dark elf agreed on the subject. She had already seen some of the humans in the town show little regard for life. They would plan to go out hunting to better their skills for the upcoming battles. Battles, there are always more battles, and more death! They feared Blood and his attacks, and rightly so, but they did not even care to learn the entire details, they seemed to relish in the idea of killing or so called adventure. It certainly was appropriate the Sinthar Bloodstone was named as he was, too appropriate for words.
Several scrapes gathered across her thin arms as she sped through the forest from low branches she whipped past unaware. After running what seemed like seconds she stopped as she approached a light in the distance. Not one of fire, but something more, it seemed to penetrate deeply in the heart of the forest and offered a retreat from her thoughts. Slowly she walked, the light becoming more intense with each step until she recognized the outskirts of a forest temple. Her frantic steps quickened as she approached the stone and an easy comfort gripped her as she made out the symbol of the great oak leaf.
Stunned before the sight she dropped to her knees at the altar and bowed her head reverently, "Preserver, I know not what to do.. I have spoken to one known as Ozymandias of which I am told you may know. I am told to value life as you have requested and to do what is necessary. My Lord, please tell me what I must do.. What is the greater good and in killing some does that save the many?" Her voices begins to waver slightly, from the strain of her words, "Aeridin, I cannot kill and please I ask that you be merciful on my soul when you judge..."
The elven words seemed to affect her, for it has been rare that she has been able to speak in her native language. Not since leaving her family behind in this long journey. She had began to sob quietly when told these things before and later became solemn as she knew in her heart these words were true. The cycle had begun again as her tears began to slowly trickle down her cheek.
Life and death, why must there be both?
9
« on: January 13, 2005, 04:41:00 am »
I have missed you Jemi,
I was so relieved to see that you not only received my letter alright but you also wrote back to me! I know we have been through a lot together and I knew you would be upset but I - well, needless to say I am really glad to hear from you. Sending the family ring was an excellent idea, and so I have enclosed mine for you as well. You really do have the brains in the family, dear one. Unfortunately I was not there for your eighty sixth day of birth but I do want to know about everything that happened. Did mother and father plan anything special? Speaking of them... How have they taken all of this? I am sure they were extremely disappointed in me for this but as I explained to you it was something that had to be done. I cannot really explain it to you even now that I am here and you are there. It is just something that I have faith in, and I hope you likewise have faith in me.
Now that I have been in the town for a little over a week I have began to meet some of the people who live here. Oddly it is a town which seems to be made up of travellers. Someone I know called them adventurers, but then he also called them killers. I would probably tend to go with a statement in between. Before you worry needlessly I will explain, of course. I was surrounded by a group of people who began to speak to me and I likewise greeted them in return. It was not long before they spoke of a need to hone their skills and of some goblins and ogres that attacked travellers nearby. I can see the point in protecting the innocent and tending to wounds but I just do not see any reason for needless killing. There are too many deaths as it is in this world, why add to the problem?
Enough of that though, for I have some better news! I met a few people which I seemed to get along with fairly well. Another elf, actually she is a paladin of Aeridin as well, I met her outside of the town crypts. She has actually spoken with the Preserver! Is that not simply amazing? She seems a bit tough but she definitely is well spoken and has had the training. Probably longer training than me - though most people have... Regardless, she even gave me some gold to help buy supplies which I appreciated. I still owe her some coin back, I just need to find a job or something I guess. Another person there he gave me some potions of healing, and he was a clergy of Folian S'pae. I was glad to see so many elves. Especially given the crypt. I guess I should tell you that part as well...
The crypts in the town appear to have a rather unique problem. It is a human town primarily and for whatever reason the dead in crypts are animated and brought to life. I have always heard of the undead from my lessons, but I had not actually encountered any until a few days ago! Quite scary at first, but Aeridin managed to hold them at bay after I did as instructed. I am hoping that I can use these undead as a means to gain some coin as well as practice my prayers. I know I will need both.
After this, only a few hours ago infact, I also ran into another curious gentleman. He really was a gentleman, despite some of his strange qualities. I will not worry you needlessly so I will simply say that he has had a tragic past and needs whatever guidance he may receive. I offered both, but I think he still has a long journey ahead of him. I learned a lot from him, and from the others, but he is somewhat of a local lorekeeper. Definitely will be useful to know him, on several levels. He also claims to be friends with the Chosen of Aeridin, to which someday he may introduce us. Would that not be fantastic? I wish you could be here for that.
Either way, I had best end this letter so I can make sure it gets sent off before the morning courier leaves for the docks. I shall wear your ring always, and you can mine. While I would like to say I will be home soon I fear this situation I have found myself in is only getting more complicated. Do not worry though, I have help and am not alone. Take care and remember to brush Nayshi several times a week or he becomes...unpleasant.
Write again soon,
Lonna
10
« on: November 15, 2004, 02:46:00 am »
I write upon this parchment in the hope that one day these words help further Aragen's teachings. While I do not wish to appear as conceited in these writings I must admit that I have a new sense of purpose as the visions I have had for several years have come to reality as a golden dragon of considerable size has enlisted my aid in the battle against an even greater evil known from a millenia ago as Blood. I ask that anyone that may retrieve this please take it, without hesitation, to the nearest of temples to the Wise One for they may find it of considerable use.
Upon arriving at my destination, a small town known as Hlint I was greeted by friendly faces and words of welcome. Something I am not accustomed to, and something one does not normally expect when preparing for a coming war. An elf first met and welcomed me, a young woman by the name of Marainna. I was quite astonished later to discover she is one of the feared Dark Elves which I have heard much. A subject quite sore to her, and though I should be wary I cannot help but feel sorry for this poor soul who has the unfortunate misgivings of her racial tendencies behind her. Most helpful, she showed me some of the basic things the town offered. She later helped introduce me to others, such as a very large man - a giant of men, indeed, named Duur. Quite simple in his thoughts it would seem, again his friendliness was astounding to witness, albeit from afar.
A quiet interlude allowed me to establish myself again, having used much of my supplies in my travel to Hlint. A quiet afternoon of fishing allowed for some reflection, and a chance to catch some good food. Shortly after this I made my way to the local inn where I met up with a curious man named Devinion. He appeared to be quite influencial with the locals, though I cannot help but mention a familiarity with him. We had not met before, surely, yet there was something... He is a descendent of the elves, nearly fully he claimed. Perhaps that is it, as I am unsure of my own ancestry even though it points towards a fey background.
Later I ventured into the local crypt where the remains of the dead walked. Skeletons and zombies alike walk amongst the living. I met with two priestesses upon this. Though I often have a strange fear of females I was grateful for any assistance against these abominations. Amelia, a priestess of considerable faith works in Aerdin's name ridding the crypt of the foul beings. Kalisa, a priestess of no small worth either following in Lucinda's path. Both are deities that Aeridin shares an alliance with, and if I was the type to have friends surely both of these would be fine companions. Working our way deep into the crypt we encountered a being of pure shadow and hatred. Without the aid of the divine I know we would have fought in vain though with the writings of these words we were victorious! Aragen shall be most pleased to know I have learned so much in such a short time already within this town. However, I can feel there is still so much more to learn.
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