The Campaign Builder's Guild

Hey,

I've looked quickly at some other campaign worlds on the forums and thought I should start my own thread for my own campaign. It's in its early development phase, but I thought it'd be good to post anyways. I have alot of stuff written for the campaign already and more to lay down on paper, so I'll try to keep the information flowing.

Primeval is a campaign world set in-between the stone age and the bronze age. It's meant to be realistic, but does include fantasy elements. It is not necessarily meant as a setting for RPGs, but can be used as such and will be created as such.
The world evolves around a certain peninsula, a place that's been the birth of mankind. Time passed and the human race grew and evolved, eventually spreading across the map. Today, a powerful state looks afar with dreams of conquest and adventure. But little do they know that outside their city walls lies danger, both natural and magical. Witness the change of the world as the ambitious city-state of Bagian sends its men into foreign lands.

You know, I've always wanted to run an adventure in a time like this. The idea would be to have the first adventure be procuring enough food for the player's tribe to make it through the winter, with a final fight against something enormous like a mammoth or a woolly rhino. Bronze weapons would be akin to magical weapons.

It never got further than that idea, though.

PS: Welcome to the CBG!

Thank you,

Yeah it's an underused time-setting. It's been a project of mine since this summer, which I restarted about five times. Now I think I've got what I've been wanting.

Bagian, the "flower of civilization" is advancing quickly into the next age, but there will definitely be tribes like in the northern mountains (I'm thinking Afghanistan-ish-Pakistan-ish) and the jungles to the east which remain much more primitive than the rest of the world. More information to come... eventually.

I don't see the fight pictured above as an end-fight or even epic fight. Mammoths will also not exist in the Bagian region. I am including them, as well as variants, into the setting at some point though, so sit tight!

I'll probably be posting some more information later today.

Here are my inspirations for the regions I have in my mind. Only the Bagian region is on paper as of now and the northern, mountainous region will come shortly after, as both are politically tied (War).

The map, as of now, remains small and MOST of the world is uncharted. In fact, actual cartography is also only in its infancy and the means of direction is either by remembering, or cosmological signs (such as sun, moon, stars... like the good ol' times babe!).

The Bagian region is inspired from greek and roman geographics. (Mediterranean)
The northern mountains pass region is inspired from Afghan/Himalayan mountains.
The northern tundra is inspired by Canadian/Siberian tundra.
The northern icebergs/archipelagos is inspired by Canadian arctic archipelagos.
The eastern jungle is inspired from both Amazonian and African jungles.
The eastern bay and archipelagos is inspired by Japanese/South-East Asian islands.
The eastern desert is inspired by the Sahara desert.
The eastern mountains and rolling plains are inspired from China and Mongol lands.

Good start. Welcome to the CBG.


  Just a few questions to get your brain working:

 Is man the only sentient race?
 Why is he master of the civilized lands?
 Why is Bagian region more advanced than others-possibly  agriculture/trade/genuine ingenuity?
 What are these magical dangers (first post) that lie outside city walls? Would love to hear more about them.
 Why are the northern mountain pass peoples at war with Bagians? Are they both humans?
 I suppose this would be a polytheistic setting? If so are the gods seen as cruel? Petty? Terrible? Merciful? Are one gods       worshipers tolerant of another god?
Are tribes still nomadic? or have they all figured out agriculture? Some combination of the two?



Thats all I can think to ask at the moment. Good luck with this!

Here's some information about the Bagian region.

Stone Age, nearing Bronze Age. Simple ship technology exists (rafts and small fishing ships). Flint weapons such as spears, daggers and swords are used, but also hammers and mauls made of stone or solid bones. Of course, bows are also made. Buildings are made of stone and wood'¦ sometimes marble and other, more exotic minerals as well.

The political scene of the city-state is rather a new one. Pluton the First installed himself on the throne, even created it, and subjugated the surrounding populace to his iron fist rule. He died only recently and his only son, Stephanos (renamed Pluton II), took his place on the throne. It is said that Pluton the First died of a disease, but many rumors tell otherwise. The first Regnum assembled an army (using a method of conscription) and some of them were sent away to expand the state. They clashed with the Mindhu tribe of the northern mountains and even to this day they remain unable to conquer the land. Also, to the east, emissaries have found barbaric tribes living in the jungle and the wonderful archipelagos. Locally, a secret war is fought between Magnas, senators and the Dux to overthrow the Regnum and take control of the city-state.

Religion is only seeing the light of day, but there is no actual proof as to if there is a god, many gods or any divine 'thinking' entity in the cosmos. Many opportunists are making up stories and using the unexplainable to gather wealth and followers, thus gaining status and creating organizations based on false beliefs (or not so false).

Spells can be cast by weaving magical particles that are part of the atmosphere. Those particles are called mana particles, or just mana. Upon excitement or certain guidance, they will manifest and create an effect. Often called miracles or simply magic. There are very few spellcasters and they are generally feared, even shunned. Their practice is still a mystery to the common man.

The peninsula on which the city-state has grown has always been home to mankind. Over time, some have ventured into foreign territory and never returned. After decades, no'¦ centuries, these adventurers totally forgot their origin and so did the people of the peninsula. Those who lived near the peninsula's coast survived by hunting and gathering, but eventually became more and more sedentary and started farming and breeding. Small-scale war occasionally happened, but never anything grand-scale.
Before present time, there was a time of constant war, where warlords sent their clanmates to war for territory. It will be known later as the time of Warring States.

Something of importance, the hierarchical system of the city-state. It wasn't always like that, but today it's how it looks.

Regnum Pluton II & Royal Family
Dux Herades (Regnum's representant and closest advisor)
Senata/Council (And it's appointed (by the Regnum) Senators)
Magnas
Orators

* The Royal family has no actual say in politics and they cannot make decisions like a state official or the Regnum himself. But being who they are, they can greatly influence the Regnum's decisions.
** The Dux is more of a personal advisor and spokesperson of the Regnum. His voice is that of the Regnum.
*** The Senata was formed by the former Regnum Pluton I to ease communications with the citizens of the city-state and make it appear as if the Regnum had less authority, which is false... But the common man doesn't know that. It's creation was a political play and it worked as intended. Of course now Pluton II has to deal with them as they become more aware of their "pressuring powers".
**** Magnas are men tasked with the administration of a district/region.
***** Orators are emissaries sent to explore and colonize foreign lands. They are often high ranked military officials.

QuoteIs man the only sentient race?

Why is he master of the civilized lands?[/quote]Why is Bagian region more advanced than others-possibly  agriculture/trade/genuine ingenuity?[/quote]Well actually we don't know that, but since the campaign evolves from the peninsula's region, it is safe to say that they are, for the time being, the most advanced culture.[/spoiler]

QuoteWhat are these magical dangers (first post) that lie outside city walls? Would love to hear more about them.

Why are the northern mountain pass peoples at war with Bagians? Are they both humans?[/quote]I suppose this would be a polytheistic setting? If so are the gods seen as cruel? Petty? Terrible? Merciful? Are one gods worshipers tolerant of another god?[/quote]Are tribes still nomadic? or have they all figured out agriculture? Some combination of the two?[/quote]
Depends. I'd say a combination. It depends on the region.

I'd like people to know that my setting aims to be as vast as the human mind can be, but always trying to keep in close-touch with the reality.

I'm quite interested to see how this turns out. I like what I'm seeing so far, though.

Quick question: What is magic capable of accomplishing?

Also, welcome to the CBG!

QuoteI'm quite interested to see how this turns out. I like what I'm seeing so far, though.

Quick question: What is magic capable of accomplishing?[/quote]
Pretty much anything, you'll be able to see glimpses of the possibilities with my character histories, general history and artifact sections which are coming soon I guess.
From causing natural catastrophies such as tornadoes, earthquakes and tsunamis to summoning titanic magma elementals. Not forgetting about sucking in matter in black holes!

In my head, the magic in my setting plays the "epic" part. As you can read above, spellcasers are usually shunned and even feared. Some are contracted by the state officials for politic or economic purposes. It doesn't make them less dangerous though, as they hold vast, unknown powers.

Ｈｍã',ã''Ｗｈａï½"ã''ｉï½"ã''ï½"ｈï½...ã''ｃｏï½"ï½"ã''ｏｆã''ｍａｇｉｃ？ What limits the amount of "work" that a given magic user can do? What limits the ability of the common man to work magic?

Good luck with this setting.

Those questions are pretty good.

QuoteWhat limits the amount of "work" that a given magic user can do?

What limits the ability of the common man to work magic?[/quote]
I guess this question can be answered by the above. Naturally talented magicians exist and thus these would not need ressources (think about the sorceror in D&D), but the majority needs to learn and the learning materials (manuals and teachers) are usually supplied by the State. So these are the limits.

These might not be all fantasy possibilities, but they could be!

Discovering new intelligent races
Discovering mysterious magics
Discovering spiritual paths/beliefs (think of Tibet, Islamist radicals, martial arts masters and the such)
Discovering new technologies (metallurgy, Submarine and Battleships, means of flying, communication and much more)
Discovering the cosmos and its component (Be it the star on which the story takes place or other planes of existence)
Probably much more... the mind's the only barrier to your fantasy.

Some of these possibilities might become linked as well. Cultures different from the Bagianeses ( I guess that's how I'm going to call the people of the Bagian region) and they, as well, evolve in many ways and are not limited to discovering only certain things. Unless noted otherwise of course.

Quote from: Magnus PymThose questions are pretty good.

QuoteWhat limits the amount of "work" that a given magic user can do?

What limits the ability of the common man to work magic?

So say I'm a powerful sorcerer. What is stopping me from summoning a ton of titanic creatures and just taking over the world?

QuoteSo say I'm a powerful sorcerer. What is stopping me from summoning a ton of titanic creatures and just taking over the world?

I think this question was answered. The State controls the use of magic and they are well aware of who's a user and who's not. Of course, rogue-practitioners (such as a powerful sorceror who passed incognito for years) are dealt with without mercy immediately. Not necessarily public execution, simply execution on the spot where they are found out. Sometimes they'll be turned into State Officials or teachers. Or if they are born with magical talents, they could be taken in and taught.

Of course, each new practitioner becomes a matter of discussion of the high circle of hierarchy as to if they are a threat or not to the state. Decisions are made swiftly and without mercy.

BUT, to truly answer your question; Nothing. Just your own capabilities at weaving magic.

Quote from: Magnus Pym

QuoteSo say I'm a powerful sorcerer. What is stopping me from summoning a ton of titanic creatures and just taking over the world?

What I'm getting at is that there is a possible power imbalance situation here in that someone with magic talent could use their skills to completely flatten everyone else. And if this exists then you should regularly see magicians taking the chance for a major power grab with the non magic people getting tossed around like pawns. The likely result being a mass purge of magic users out of fear (think salem witch trials stuff). If the magic casters hold all the power why not band together and steamroll everyone else?

I was aware of that and understood the question. I think that what I am getting at is not all practitioners of magic are as powerful as you think they are. It doesn't mean I've said that magic can create black holes that everyone can. And it also doesn't mean that all spellcasters are insane and hell bent on controlling the world and razing its inhabitants.

Yes there might be, at times, imbalance. Read my story and you'll notice happenings that are way beyond human control. At least, normal humans.
[spoiler]It's also a "coming-plot" that a magician tries to take control and probably will succeed, for a time.[/spoiler]

Never forget that it's one of the state's primary duty to regulate the use of magic. And that magic is rare. (Low-magic setting)

I hope that answers the question, otherwise you need to clarify (again, haha).

[note]I'd like to say that anything here is subject to change.[/note]

5BS(Before Unified State)- Start of the period of Warring States.

1BS (Before Unified State)- Bagian junior is born. The Last Battle against Bharakha starts.

0 '" The Last Battle ends with Pluton I as the victor. He forms a city-state which he names after his fallen comrade, Bagian. Time and events are now recorded by a group of sage called The Calendar.

1- Pluton II is born.

4- Regnum Pluton sends his first readied troops northward to expand his territory.

5- A postal system is created within the city and accessible by the State Officials to easy communication between them.

6 '" A new wave of soldiers is sent eastward into the forests and jungles. In the meantime, troops from the north came back, injured and horrified at what they encountered.

7 '" Veterans from the first northern expedition are given more men and are sent to the north again to fight the tribes for the territory and resources. (Mines mostly)

8- Messenger from the east come back with news of a natural paradise, unfortunately inhabited by barbaric men. They need more men to be able to overwhelm these ferocious, naturally-talented fighters. A messenger from the north also comes back with the request for more soldiers, the fight is harder than expected against the northern people.

9- The request to send more men east and north is overwhelming and even with a conscription system, they cannot train fast enough for the actual needs. Regnum Pluton orders the Orators to build forward posts and stay put until more men are sent.

10- Finally, the gargantuesque statue depicting Pluton I is erected in Bagian. This wonderful construction becomes a source of pride for the people of the city-state.

11- A Magnas is assassinated. The Regnum forms a group of agents that act only under his authority and are given as much resources as they need to do their work. Pluton's Secret Service is created. In the meantime, another Magnas is appointed by Pluton and their duty is re-evaluated.

14- The region on which Bagian lies suffers from a terrible earthquake, a tenth of the population falls and the rest is left with a shattered city. The wife of the fallen Bagian dies, as well as the Dux and the Magnas who's been appointed three years before. A new Magnas is named and also a Dux. It is Herades, a proud veteran from the northern campaign and master swordsman who becomes the Regnum's personal advisor.

15 '" With the recent earthquake which left the city in shambles and the Regnum's ever-increasing dreams of expansion, the populace and slaves stand in an uprising against Pluton I. For the first time, his rule becomes seriously challenged.

16- The Regnum forms a council, named the Senata. The Senata is presided by the regnum of course, but houses Senators; men in which the people put great trust. In the end, it's still Pluton who decides who becomes a Senator and it's still he who has the last word. This gesture is considered a good start by the citizen and is the first step in the creation of a democratic system.

17- His ambitions greatly slowed by the Senata and the citizens, Pluton I slowly becomes depressed. Thinking his dreams shattered, he passes all his time in the palace. People see this as a sign of weakness and many try to take the opportunity to change things. Unfortunately, they all fail.

20- Pluton I sends the maximum number of soldiers northward and eastward to finally gain control over these territories. He does that even without the support from the Senata, which advise him to not move now and wait for more troops to assure the state's security while the troops are abroad.

21- Regnum Pluton I dies from poisoned drink and his son Stephanos (renamed Pluton II) takes his place on the throne. He abolishes the obligatory military service system. He also receives news of impending victory to the north, nothing concrete though.

22- In a desperate effort to push back the invading forces, the Mindhu tribe of the north summons forth a titanic humanoid mass of magma. Magmus decimates the Bagian forces to the north and walks on Bagian in an uncontrolled rage. In the end, Pluton II personally puts an end to his rampage and becomes not only the Regnum, but a true hero and another source of pride amongst the citizens of the city-state. The joy after Magmus defeat is short-lived, the state is now at war with a crazy and powerful enemy.

Quote from: Magnus PymI was aware of that and understood the question. I think that what I am getting at is not all practitioners of magic are as powerful as you think they are. It doesn't mean I've said that magic can create black holes that everyone can. And it also doesn't mean that all spellcasters are insane and hell bent on controlling the world and razing its inhabitants.

Yes there might be, at times, imbalance. Read my story and you'll notice happenings that are way beyond human control. At least, normal humans.
[spoiler]It's also a "coming-plot" that a magician tries to take control and probably will succeed, for a time.[/spoiler]

Never forget that it's one of the state's primary duty to regulate the use of magic. And that magic is rare. (Low-magic setting)

I hope that answers the question, otherwise you need to clarify (again, haha).

I think then you need to clarify that. My question was based upon the information you had given which puts forth an assumption that magic users are these nigh unstoppable forces without limits to their magic. It's a cool concept, I'm just asking for clarification on magic :)

QuoteMagic

Spells can be cast by weaving magical particles that are part of the atmosphere. Those particles are called mana particles, or just mana. Upon excitement or certain guidance, they will manifest and create an effect. Often called miracles or simply magic. There are very few spellcasters and they are generally feared, even shunned. Their practice is still a mystery to the common man.

QuoteQuick question: What is magic capable of accomplishing?

Quote...as they hold vast...

Ok... I should've said CAN hold?

If one reads between the lines, and I'm not implying anything here or trying to offend anyone, he'll discover that what I'm saying is that;

1st - There aren't many spellcasters
2nd - Spellcasters are somewhat controlled by the state.
3rd - Magic CAN be extremely powerful, but the amount of ressources and time required to learn and/or cast such powerful spells are great. So one is easily identified by the state if he tries something funny.

Of course now we fall in the subject of rogue practitioners, who hid all their lives and learned their art in the dark. Nobody knows about them. Well, you know what, TADA! Plot opportunity.

Yes, there will be crazy spellcasters who dream of world domination and others who dream of a humanless world... maybe even much worse! Things as hardcore as this happen in the real world too (except without the magic element). Hitler held vast powers (military power) and used it to erase the jews from the map. He didn't succeed... but hell he made a great lot of people afraid and was responsible for commiting atrocities such as mass killing. He's not the only one. The Cold War between USA and Russia with threats on both side of using nuclear weapons. Alexander The Great and Genghis Khan on their great conquest. They are not all evil, but all had grand schemes and were helped by the influence/powers they held.

I'd like to repeat that my campaign setting tries to stay in touch with reality (even though it's based in ANOTHER world), but also makes use of fantasy elements.

Make no mistake, I'm glad that you guys machine-gunned me with questions such as these because I had to take a step back and rethink my things, ESPECIALLY about magic on which I hadn't put too much thought. Besides, as I put in more content, which is already written down and just needs some copy/pasting, things will become more and more clear to everyone.

Actually I have previewed this post and I think it really needed to be done... read between the lines or not. Thanks Nomadic.

[blockquote=Magnus Pym]Yes, there will be crazy spellcasters who dream of world domination and others who dream of a humanless world... maybe even much worse! Things as hardcore as this happen in the real world too (except without the magic element). Hitler held vast powers (military power) and used it to erase the jews from the map. He didn't succeed... but hell he made a great lot of people afraid and was responsible for commiting atrocities such as mass killing.[/blockquote]Heh hooray for Godwin's Law!

Looks like a cool sort of setting.  If you haven't encountered them already you should check out Llum's Bronze Setting (http://thecbg.org/e107_plugins/forum/forum_viewtopic.php?65206.post), which is similarly Hyborian in concept, and Ghostman's Savage Age (http://thecbg.org/e107_plugins/forum/forum_viewtopic.php?75347.post), which takes place in a world that's young and, well, savage.

Royal Family & State Officials

Bagian Force (Bagian army commanded by the Regnum)

Pluton's Secret Service (Secret agents whose members identities are unknown but to the Regnum himself, from which they receive their orders. They are extremely loyal and oversee state's security, but are more focused on the Regnum and his family's safety)

The Cabal (They are a publicly known branch of the Pluton's Secret Service (though that, they do not know) and their duty is to control the use of magic and hunt rogue practitioners who are considered a threat to the state or the royal family)

The Calendar (A group of sages who keep track of time and events. They are closely watched by the Regnum and his secret service)

Mindhu Tribe (A powerful shamanic tribe from the northern mountains who try to protect their lands against the Bagian imperialists)

Black Mantle (Led secretly by Dux Herades, their goal is to overthrow the royal family and take the throne to create a new world where they would reign supreme. This organization finances researches and practitioners of dark magic, but also assassins and spies)

Liberacion (Led by Aristeous, this pacific movement encourages total democracy over a monarchy. They are based in the city-state itself and have the sympathy of a state officials. The movement was born years before the death of Pluton I, but was only publicly known after his fall. Even though Pluton II is on good terms with Aristeous and vice-versa, he's still greatly pressured by this movement which constantly gains the heart of the more radical (often young) citizens. It is safe to say that they hate the Black Mantle organization and their lame, cowardly actions as much as the State Officials do)

[note]I will most probably add to the list.[/note]

QuoteHeh hooray for Godwin's Law!

Looks like a cool sort of setting. If you haven't encountered them already you should check out Llum's Bronze Setting, which is similarly Hyborian in concept, and Ghostman's Savage Age, which takes place in a world that's young and, well, savage.[/quote]

I haven't check out Bronze Setting yet, but thanks, I will.

I did go through pretty much everything on the Savage Age setting. I was impressed and inspired. Especially because the Bagian culture is similar to his depicted empire. I think he's been at it a little longer than me though, he's really put much time into the details and it shows.

And thanks.

Pluton the First used to be one of the warlords during the Warring States, a period of constant war in ancient civilization that preceded the creation of the city-state. He rallied all the warlords under a single banner and slayed those who opposed his reign. When he formed the city-state, it was his family that contributed the most to the financing of the construction of state buildings and residences. He built walls and law enforcement outposts to keep the citizens safe from outside threats. With his rule came the formation of an army. Only he could command the Bagian Force.
His ultimate goal was the dominion of a vast empire. One that would reach farther than the northern tribal mountains, into the cold plains'¦ farther than the jungles and the desert to the east, where a long chain of mountains stood tall and proud. He wanted to have everything under his control'¦ a real emperor's dream.
During his march on foreign lands, he would rarely take prisoners, preferring to make slaves out of them. He had many followers, even amongst the slaves themselves who sometime looked up to him in awe. But not everyone was content with his dictatorial regime and so he had many enemies, often nebulous organizations operating in the dark. Pluton I will always be notorious for his founding of the city-state, the founding of a military force and bizarrely benevolent behavior towards slaves. In the end, he died a lame death by poisoning, during a mundane family night at the palace.

* One might ask why would slaves look up to him as an idol. Well, he got them jobs. When you are a slave, you are fed. If your not a slave and you can't work, or simply don't work, you don't get to feed yourself without having to do illegal things, of course. So for a portion of them, he was a savior.

Stephanos, renamed Pluton the Second, grew up mostly enclosed in the palace walls, studying and practicing martial arts, philosophy and military strategy. He was given the best resources to learn and he took full opportunity of this, knowing very well he was blessed, but at the same time, given a responsibility to become the next Regnum. He was a quick thinker and wise, which eased the learning process.
Around the age of ten, he and his best friend, Bagian, discovered the art of magic. His father, the Regnum, allowed him access to his fallen comrade's personal library which contained many essential manuals to learn the science of magic. He and his friend were also supplied a teacher. One of great knowledge and important background (he was, at the time, Bagian's apprentice before said person fell in the Last Battle.) Xedeus was his name and he would become Pluton II's teacher of mystical arts.
Pluton the Second didn't get out often, but when he was bored enough to, he helped the citizens all he could. It was also in his best interest to create a strong bond with the people of the state and become aware of their lifestyle. He knew that very well and because of his involvement, despite its casualness, the people liked him.
He witnessed his father's sudden death, caused by poisoned drink. The assassin's identity is unknown and there are many possibilities, but Pluton II has his own guess. He immediately became ruler, wasting no time and keeping the state rolling. He took the opportunity to change a couple of things. He stopped the conscription, or let's say obligatory military service and trained only volunteers instead. He believed strongly that each new soldiers would be twice, if not thrice as strong and proud as the current ones if serving their people was their own decision instead of a long-awaited-long-lasting obligation. He abolished the curfew, allowing the people of the state to remain active during night times. This increased economic productivity and the citizens (and slaves) morale. This created a need for night law enforcement troops.
Not long after these modifications, the city-state was attacked by Magmus. A walking molten monster of titanic size and power sent by the Mindhu tribe of the north. He finally killed the beast single-handedly. With his troops to the north decimated and his city partly destroyed, only one thing could happen. He was preparing war against the northern people who were now officially the state's enemies.
With his epic accomplishments he became a figure of respect and authority, more than just what he'd be as a Regnum. Some even worshipped him, thinking him a god.

Bagian was Pluton I's best friend. He was a practitioner of the mystic arts and famous for working healing miracles. He was killed by Bharakha while defending Pluton I at the Last Battle. He left a child and a wife, which were and are still given royal respect and treatment and housing at the palace. His son's name was Bagian as well. After the Warring States era, Pluton I assembled the territories into one city-state which he named after his fallen comrade, forever honoring his sacrifice. Also, Bagian had a few apprentices, which are given proper housing and equipment to become teachers of their healing art.

 [note]Of course, some people before them made history. For what it matters, all the warlords should have their name and a small biography here. But it's unnecessary, as they are no longer alive and the people they led are fully integrated into the new, unified state now.[/note]

On magic. I'm getting the impression that wild magic is quite common, but humans with the ability to use it aren't? I'm not sure if I would count that as high magic or low magic. Interesting.

If all mages are regulated by the state, does magic have any effect on politics? Do they hold high positions? Are they granted some sort of special status?

Great setting so far. I'd love to see how it develops.

Quote from: Magnus Pym

QuoteMagic

Spells can be cast by weaving magical particles that are part of the atmosphere. Those particles are called mana particles, or just mana. Upon excitement or certain guidance, they will manifest and create an effect. Often called miracles or simply magic. There are very few spellcasters and they are generally feared, even shunned. Their practice is still a mystery to the common man.

QuoteQuick question: What is magic capable of accomplishing?

Quote...as they hold vast...

Oh it's all fine I was just a bit curious as to the limits of magic and wanted to put out a few possible consequences based on what I'd read. Anyhow it's looking good and I'm sure I'll be keeping tabs on your setting. And yes we're well known for "machine gunning" people with questions (haha I like that term) as we're pretty big on constructive criticism here. On that note feel free to look at someone else's thread and machine gun them with questions in turn.

Another question, you talk about resources required to learn or advance in magic arts. I'm assuming one of those resources being teaching materials or learned teachers themselves who can help you. Are there other resources that magic uses? Focuses, tomes, magical items, etc? It seems you're looking to connect magic to "miracles" so are there perhaps legends of people who did miraculous things (parting the red sea, stopping the sun in the sky, stealing the moon, etc) that were actually just magicians using their abilities? I do love a good myth :)

welcome to the forums MP. I've only read your initial post about the Bagian region, and so far it's piqued my interest. Both Ghostman, Llum, and myself have settings based in antiquity/earlier history (Savage Age, Bronze Setting and Arga (although mine's admittedly much more anachronistic), respectively) so it's in my alley.

Anyhoo, these are my thoughts so far.

-This will come off blunt and fast, but I'm not sure the name Bagian is what you want. It really doesn't scream 'ancient' to me. Baghyan maybe, or Bhaigyn. Same with the names I've read so far. Pluton immediately makes me think of Plutarch, Pluto, and Pliny, all which in turn make me think Rome/Greece, which, while you said that was what you were aiming for geographically, it doesn't make me think prehistory. Simple descriptors also seem to work well for this kind of setting, like Kor the Red, or Ghem of Seven Arrows.

Also, a fun way to "cheat" is to base areas/religions/cultures/etc. off of ancient cultures, but just don't tell us ;).

-The magic system could use some flava. Brutality, risk, addiction, consumption, and enslavement all make great themes for magic in a pre-historic/ancient setting. Look to the Hyborian Age for examples. As much as a I dislike elemental-themed things, in such a setting it could actually work well. If your setting is pre-historic, think prehistoric.

Criticisms aside, your emphasis on exploration and discovery of other worlds, peoples, religions, and technologies is pretty awesome. Just please don't have orcs, dwarves, and goblins waiting to be discovered. I still think one-footed cyclops need a home.

Also awesome is the level of pre-history you're aiming for - like flint-tipped spears and floating logs for boats. The fact that you left religions open-ended and undefined is something near and dear to me own little heart. Conundrum Crow would probably like that too. Hell, a lot of us probably like that.

Keep it up dude.
 

Quote from: LeetzThe fact that you left religions open-ended and undefined is something near and dear to me own little heart. Conundrum Crow would probably like that too. Hell, a lot of us probably like that.

I like it, my setting uses that because I was tired of the confirmed single pantheon of gods meddling in mortal affairs thing that has over-saturated the fantasy market as of late.

QuoteOn magic. I'm getting the impression that wild magic is quite common, but humans with the ability to use it aren't? I'm not sure if I would count that as high magic or low magic. Interesting.

If all mages are regulated by the state, does magic have any effect on politics? Do they hold high positions? Are they granted some sort of special status?[/quote]Great setting so far. I'd love to see how it develops.[/quote]
Thanks

Heh I see a druid using his nature powers to protect and otherwise help a village prosper. Help their crops, give them proper weather, drive away animals and raiders, etc. They might set him up as the village chief or even revere him as a god or spirit of some kind depending on their beliefs and his aloofness. A possible plot hook when the cabal finds out about him too.

Quote...Another question, you talk about resources required to learn or advance in magic arts. I'm assuming one of those resources being teaching materials or learned teachers themselves who can help you. Are there other resources that magic uses? Focuses, tomes, magical items, etc? It seems you're looking to connect magic to "miracles" so are there perhaps legends of people who did miraculous things (parting the red sea, stopping the sun in the sky, stealing the moon, etc) that were actually just magicians using their abilities? I do love a good myth...

This will come off blunt and fast, but I'm not sure the name Bagian is what you want. It really doesn't scream 'ancient' to me. Baghyan maybe, or Bhaigyn.[/quote]...If OUR human race were (and sorry, still are) idiots, it doesn't mean that THEY (in my setting) have to be...[/quote]...Pluton immediately makes me think of Plutarch, Pluto, and Pliny, all which in turn make me think Rome/Greece, which, while you said that was what you were aiming for geographically, it doesn't make me think prehistory...[/quote]Simple descriptors also seem to work well for this kind of setting, like Kor the Red, or Ghem of Seven Arrows.[/quote]Also, a fun way to "cheat" is to base areas/religions/cultures/etc. off of ancient cultures, but just don't tell us.[/quote]The magic system could use some flava. Brutality, risk, addiction, consumption, and enslavement all make great themes for magic in a pre-historic/ancient setting. Look to the Hyborian Age for examples. As much as a I dislike elemental-themed things, in such a setting it could actually work well. If your setting is pre-historic, think prehistoric.[/quote]...If your setting is pre-historic, think prehistoric...[/quote]...Just please don't have orcs, dwarves, and goblins waiting to be discovered. I still think one-footed cyclops need a home...[/quote]...Also awesome is the level of pre-history you're aiming for - like flint-tipped spears and floating logs for boats. The fact that you left religions open-ended and undefined is something near and dear to me own little heart...[/quote]I like it, my setting uses that because I was tired of the confirmed single pantheon of gods meddling in mortal affairs thing that has over-saturated the fantasy market as of late.[/quote]While getting to know my setting, people have to detach themselves from the usual roleplaying worlds. Take a step back and consider this as something new. It will help I think.[/note]

Quote from: Magnus PymPluton's Secret Service (Secret agents whose members identities are unknown but to the Regnum himself, from which they receive their orders. They are extremely loyal and oversee state's security, but are more focused on the Regnum and his family's safety)

What makes them loyal? Is it because they are so well-paid that no one outside the royal family could afford to bribe them? Magically conditioned? Indoctrinated from childhood (perhaps slaves acquired as infants and grown up in secret in the regnum's palace)? Or are their families held hostage to guard against betrayal?

Quote from: Magnus PymThe Calendar (A group of sages who keep track of time and events. They are closely watched by the Regnum and his secret service)

Why are the sages monitored? What power do they have that the regnum would fear? Do they have monopoly on the recording of history?

Good questions

QuoteWhat makes them loyal? Is it because they are so well-paid that no one outside the royal family could afford to bribe them? Magically conditioned? Indoctrinated from childhood (perhaps slaves acquired as infants and grown up in secret in the regnum's palace)? Or are their families held hostage to guard against betrayal?

Trade is done by exchange, there is no coinage as of yet as there is no metallurgy technology. There will perhaps be paper-trade (checque kinda). Remains to be seen.[/note]

I guess the first choice would be the right choice, but... they are not paid. remember that they are given endless resources to do their work, which also includes lodging (local or abroad), feeding and material resources to succeed in their investigation. As well as secret hideouts to rest and lay low, would something bad happen. Who wouldn't want that over being a slave or simple citizen? These guys have been handpicked, of course, but most of the time, they are either military personnel (who also are already extremely loyal under Pluton II's reign) or simple citizens with special interesting skills (or no skills at all, which makes them blend easier). It is an honor to work so closely with such a hero, in those guys mind. Of course, indoctrinated since childhood could be an idea as well, but the politics and Pluton II himself are young in the region... so that would be unlikely AT THE MOMENT.

Entering such a service is no easy task either, perhaps some don't even know they work for Pluton II (controlled by handlers who themselves work in the service). There are initiations processes which gauge the person's loyalty to the state and to Pluton.

The service is similar to today's secret services, without the application part. You get chosen.

I hope that was a decent answer :)

QuoteWhy are the sages monitored? What power do they have that the regnum would fear? Do they have monopoly on the recording of history?

Well yeah they do, of course anyone that can write can write a book and make his own history, but they are the ones in charge of recording time and events. They are simply monitored as to make sure no butched-work is done... as simple as that. And also because its a tool the Regnum could eventually use. It hasn't been done so far, but it could.

I've been working on rethinking some things, especially the naming convention and the description of magic to make it more understandable. Finally I ended up doing something else entirely. Here's something to excite your minds just a little bit.

 [note]Everything is subject to change. Nothing is set in stone. Also note that this map is a quick sketch  made in Paint. Nothing serious, but it shows where things are.[/note]

(http://i53.tinypic.com/sbsx3c.jpg)

Regions (Geopolitics)

Lux Apex
Home to one of the most advanced society in the world, the peninsula steams with life and opportunities. Once a land plagued by war and dictatorial leaders, its now become what we could consider the center of this setting's modern civilization. Pluton, upon vanquishing his foes during the Warring States era, united the people of the region and formed a city-state. The city, as well as its people, blooms quickly and is becoming an organized military power. Their knowledge and ingenuity never cease to increase and new technologies put them, each day, farther on the scale-of-power against the other denizens of the world.
To the west lies the Endless Sea, a vast, probably infinite, ocean of salty water. When they look up north, a range of snowy mountaintops preceded by masses of trees is there for them to behold and when gazing east, they can only perceive a parcel of the paradisiac islands that form the Nhosso Archipelagos, as well as the mountainous jungles of the Gayans, a ferocious, barbaric and ruthless people hell bent on defending their exotic homes.
What lies farther than those lands might not be as much a mystery as it once was, but nothing's like seeing for oneself. The people of the Apex are serious about exploring foreign lands, they just can't wait anymore'¦

Muntanyamanu
This is the name we give to the series of mountains that slides across the western coast and finally turn abruptly towards the east, acting as a barrier between the south and the north. It's labyrinths of caverns house savage mountainous animals, but also primitive tribes. The leading clan would be the Mindhu, who have mastered the shamanistic arts to a point where they can summon forth powerful entities to aid them protect their lands.
Some of the mountains are in the highest of the world, also acting as volcanoes and unleashing unfathomable fury upon the living at times less expected.
The tribal societies of the Muntayamanu were not born malevolent, but they fear outsiders, thinking them a bad omen. They will stop at nothing to push back foreigners.
North of the mountain range lies a mysterious realm of snow and ice. When one looks afar, the only sight is white and forms cannot be made out, except for the dark-skinned mammoths that patrols the region in masses. To the east, a seemingly unending forest invites the explorer into another chain of mountains, as tall and big as the Muntanyamanu and to the south lie the Lux Apex, home to more civilized men.

Crescent Bay
The Bay is shaped like a crescent moon, hence its name. The area is jungle-infested and home to many exotic natural elements and living beings. Its most notorious inhabitants would be the savage animals, the Gayans and the Nampians. The variety in animals is too great to be enumerated and described, one has to see for himself to comprehend the vastness of the natural network there.
The Gayans are a proud people who have built their houses inside gigantic trees and erected temples made of stone and adorned with golden minerals not seen anywhere else. But as proud and crafty as they can be, they are a ferocious, barbaric and tribal people still in the early process of society and coexistence. The Nampians share a similar lifestyle, but are less prompt to using brute force and repel foreigners. They see these people as an opportunity to learn and advance themselves. Both people are in good terms with each other, but don't go out of their way to make contact. The more serene approach to life that the Nampians have might be caused by the sea near where they're established. Its azure, nearly translucid waters and white sands are capable of calming even frenzied beasts.
The jungle is so dense that one cannot see afar, but from the mountaintops, one can see more mountains to the north and dryer lands to the east, even a seemingly endless sea of sun-colored sand. And to the west lies the Apex. They have never ventured south, but they dream of, one day, setting foot on those paradise islands.

Nhosso Archipelagos
An archipelago of lush greenery and heavenly beaches topped with a tropical climate. These islands are not what they first seem to be. Infinitely hungry dinosaurs and vicious monkeys amuse themselves with unwary adventurers. Here, the law is the law of the strongest. The weak is born to become someone dinner.
Despise the fact that the nature (living and seemingly static) is an ever-present danger in the archipelago, a gathering of men and women have learned to survive and became vanquishers of the food chain. Their rustic, but solid wooden habitations as well as their martial arts skills protect them against the toughest of beasts. Physical prowess is not the only key to surviving in this harsh territory, they are very wise and quick learners. They would probably surpass the people of the Apex if they had the resources.
They are surrounded by the sea, prisoners of their luxurious resort. They can see, to the north, the mountainous jungles and a bit to the west, dryer lands that are forbidden to contemplate, in fear that bad things might happen to them.

Shoon Expanse
A natural waypoint between its western jungles and its eastern desert, the Shoon Expanse is a hot savannah dotted with the casual oasis, the only remaining proof that this land was once naturally prosperous. Its arid climate makes it tough for men to live in the Expanse, but not impossible.
The Shoons, masters of occult arts that hide in their network of caverns and chasms, are known to have lived there for a long time, sapping the land of its very life force. Although they are widespread in the region, they are not its only inhabitants. Those who oppose their lifestyle and actions have made their homes in the last remaining oasises, defending them with their supernatural powers they seem to have been gifted with. Aside from the men, tough animals live in the region. Zebras, giraffes, rhinos and elephants amongst many other kinds walk the land in groups, even armies, also protecting their homeland against the vile Shoons.
When in the savannah, each direction one gazes upon brings something new. To the south and west lie the mountainous jungles and the Endless Sea, while to the north, a land of barren, rocky wastelands infested with dust-eating insects and crazed elementalists dot the map, last witness of the Great Scorching. And to the east lie an endless desert of yellow, red and white sands, probably home to nasty, venomous living beings.

Scorched Vastlands
A land in distress, devoid of natural life except for its vast stone plains and mountains. Its arid climate also doesn't help in the growing of plants. Its most interesting sights might be the giant crevasse which leads to an unknown, but deep place and its relatively big lake of putrid water, eternal recipient of the mountainous rains.
The only living beings that made this region their permanent residence are the hordes of insects, big and tiny alike and the insane elementalists from the Great Scorching era, doomed to an eternity of wandering and burning. This is, needless to say, one of the most hostile lands of the world, devoid of benevolence and understanding. The place seems to have forgotten what it is to be natural.
The land separates the northern mountains, the desert and the savannah and traveling into it is definitely a danger.

Endless Sands
A sight to behold, it seems to expand endlessly on the horizon, showing its beautiful aspects at all times. Yellow, red and white sands form the only ground one will walk on and dunes dot the desert, allowing one to feel like a champion, would he be dying of the heat or starvation. There are, at some very rare places, small oasis. They come like a blessing to the adventurer and to the nomads that roam the region in tribes.
The only real living beings of the place are its insects and animals. Sand spiders, black scorpions and desert worms are the most dangerous and venomous of its inhabitants, but also its sneakiest. The oasis are home to beautifully colored parrots, only flash of natural color beside the sand and the sky. The desert is also home to a fabled creature of the Gayans; the Titans!
The desert is the true border between the west and the east. To its west lies all the realms depicted above, but to the east is a land of rolling plains and proud, green mountains and lakes and rivers. With forests of bamboo and lands of rice. A world yet unknown to the westerners, as the desert is nearly impossible to travel still.

Here is an example of my Q&A I did in another thread, but for my campaign and completed.

I think there's loads of information and I couldn't even enter the details without writing a novel, so there's definitely more to come... eventually.

[ic=Lux Apex]

About ancient civilization
 How did the people live their everyday lives? Were they nomad or sedentary? Was there any kind of strict hierarchy or leading characters?

A: Back then, the people were spread into clans and tribes, first venturing into the forest to hunt and gather nutrients and then building rustic, wooden habitations. They were always pretty much sedentary, but the longest we go back in time, the more nomads they were. The clans and tribes were always led by the eldest or the most tyrannical men. War between clans was not unusual, but it tended to end quickly and with the loosing clan becoming part of the winning one.

About the Warring States
 What characterizes this era the most? Who were the leading characters, what were their accomplishments and what did they have that others didn't?

A: The Warring States era, also called the Apex Duellum era, is most characterized by tribes in the vicinity under a constant state of intense war. Torture, slavery and mass killings were, unfortunately, a sad reality of that time. Several men, called warlords or tribelords, fight for dominion of the region. These powerful, tyrannical and influential men gathered followers to their cause and fought relentlessly. There were many warlords, but amongst them only four really stood out; Bharakha, Ottopos, Hermaceus and Pluton. They all had something unique that made them stood out, but at the same time, had something in common, an unquenchable thirst for power over others.

About the Unified State
 What characterizes this era the most? Who are the leading characters, what are their accomplishments and what do they have that others don't? Who protects the sovereignty of the state?

A: This era is one of prosperity and peace amongst people who were once at war with each other. It also is a period of learning and discovering. The people of the Apex are opening their mind to the vastness of the world and its endless possibilities, little by little. Make no mistake, more than just a handful of 'old schools' wish things didn't happen as it did and scheme day and night to break the order and unleash past chaos, once again, upon the region. The leading figure of the state is Pluton, an ancient warlord during the Apex Duellum era. He has much influence within the city-state he has helped built and his grip on regional, as well as foreign politics is more than iron solid. To protect the sovereignty of the state, he has formed an army named the Bagian Force.

Weather
 How's the weather in the region? Is the region prey to natural catastrophies?

A: The weather is a mix of temperate and tropical climate, more leaning on the tropical though. The rain is only casual, but enough so that the crops and plants don't die from thirst. There are more rains during the winter period though and at extremely rare times, even snow, although it happens more to the north, near the mountains of the Muntayamanu. It is usually sunny and hot, but humid as the region borders the vast sea. Amongst the natural'¦ difficulties, there are casual, non-dangerous earthquakes. Deadly tremors are not unheard of though and even happened in recent times. Long past, nearly forgotten fables tell of gigantic tidal waves smashing the region with furious anger, but it's now only a children story.

Bestiary
 What kind of animals, dinosaurs, insects and other strange beasts roam the land, before and during the Unified State? Where do they fit in the food chain?

A: The natural life in the region, just as pretty much every region, is too many to describe and enumerate, but some species have made a name for themselves, be it by fear or kindness. The Satyr for example is most often the object of stories and fables, but it goes farther than just that. These goat-men (goat lower-body and human torso with a goat face and horns) invite unwary travelers in their dark forest, not too far from the city, to lead them in their deadly traps. A deceased warlord, Ottopos, also left his mindless, undead legacy not too far from the ever-increasing population of the peninsula, posing a threat to explorers and state emissaries alike. Only seen rarely is also the minotaur, who comes from the northern mountainous caverns. A sight to behold indeed, but a fight to escape if one cares even only a bit for his life. They are an extremely ferocious species. Amongst more, normal natural species are the seagull, dog, horse and cat, but many more exist and this is but a very short list.

Dogmata
 Are there any strict religious groups? What are their belief and goal? How are they perceived by others that do not share their belief? Who are the instigators of such beliefs and for what purpose have they created the dogma?

A: Since the birth of humankind beliefs have taken up a large part of their interest and this will never cease. But not many men, at least today, dare impose their visions of the world and what it should be, or even their ideals upon others. Those who do are opportunists or straight-forward madmen. The majority of the people share the same simple beliefs, like the stars are the souls of men and women who have done great honorable deeds, or that natural catastrophes are a sign of changing times, but they perceive fanatics of certain religious groups as madmen who try, mostly in vain, to recruit people to their unjustified and foolish cause. Amongst the few cults that have seen the light of day recently, Erberius's Stella Cultis is definitely the most popular and less malign. He also doesn't come out as a madmen or opportunist. He gathers only those who voluntarily decide they should believe the facts of the dogma.

Organizations
 Are there any organizations other than dogmata, trading companies and ruling factions? Who are they? What are their goals? Do they act openly or secretly? How do people that are not part of these groups perceive them?

-   Alien defense organization
After the somewhat controlled destruction of Magmus the Molten Beast, an entity of titanic size made of magma, on Bagian, it was clear to the people of the city-state that incredible supernatural phenomena were possible and that they can definitely pose a serious threat to the people at unexpected times. For this, a group of scholars and fearless weaponmasters was formed and named; Quantum Corporis. Their organization is financed by the state and they can call upon the Bagian Force for reinforcement.
-   Sovereignty defenders and state informants
When Pluton defeated the last threatening warlord and formed the city-state, he saw a need to create an armed force. Not only to protect his rule, but also to acquire new lands. It's because of this that the Bagian Force is born.
Pro Occultis is a secret service formed by the regnum personally and at his service only. Their goal is to protect the sovereignty of the state, primarily by defending its Regnum. They are given ample resources to do their work, which includes housing, feeding, materials and safehouses. Its members are expert spies, fighters and last, but not least, extremely loyal.
-   Healing/Medical arts
Back in the Warring States, Bagian was infamous for his healing arts and medical prowess. He left a legacy, a handful of apprentices who studied under his wing, learning the science of medicine. When one of his apprentice, Xedeus, grew older, he not only took care of the Regnum's child tuition, but also formed an alliance of doctors who helped cure the citizen's injuries and diseases. The organization is strongly affiliated with the state officials, but not under its command.
-   Mystic, Occult, Arcane organization
With magic very slowly becoming more manageable and with discoveries making it more powerful, the Regnum has formed a group that is responsible for controlling its use within the state. The group is The Purgator and their primary duty is detecting and dealing with rogue practitioners.
The Schola Arcanum as also been formed and is ran by state officials. It welcomes students of the mystic arts and teaches them its basic. It eventually teaches them more specific branches of magic, depending on the learner's choice. It only welcomes a very low number of students, which will eventually work for the state. The Purgator is known to watch the students closely in case something bad happens.
-   Art & Culture organization
Inkwork was formed by an artistic bunch. They tattoo people, for a price. Rumors go around, telling tales of magically imbued tattoos giving their owner supernatural powers.
Vati Familia is a group of minstrels that travel around the city-state, performing for the always-amazed audience with the help of funny illusions, temporary and non-threatening enchantments and straightforward circus athletic performances. They are the relief of the sad and the continued joy of the happy. They often perform for the Regnum.
The Vicenzo Company has members proficient in all sorts of artistic avenues. Painters, performers, signers, storytellers, carvers and many more, they are as renowned as the Vati Familia.
-   Dissident factions (Why are they opposing?)
One cult that operates in the dark, but openly admit their position would be the Ottopos Cultis, a cabal of cruel men who dwell in the necromantic arts and still pledge allegiance to the fallen warlord Ottopos, a once-master of death and lifeforce who ruled as a tyrant. Of course the cult's members and headquarters are kept secret, but they hang around, instilling fear and doubt in the peoples heart.
Another would be the Black Mantle, which is another organization that operates secretly and do evil deeds to get what they want. They aim to overthrow the current Regnum and reign uncontested in the region. They are enemies of all and all are their enemies.
Liberacion is a movement led by Aristeous and it desires total democracy and equality for all men and women. Aristeous has gathered many followers over the years and acquired the ear of high ranking state officials along the years. He knows Pluton II (the current Regnum) very well, but still opposes him'¦ in a decent manner at least. He preaches by giving the example of his dream vision. No violence and freedom of speech is his moto.

Calendar, Time and Events
 Is there a calendar system that keeps track of time (hours, days, months, years)? Are there any holidays or festivals and why? Who keeps track of time and events?

A: In a year, there are 345 days and the year is separated in two seasons, which are also the two months. One month is Frigus and is associated with the winter season, while the other month is Aestas and is associated with the summer season. Frigus consists of 115 days and Aestas of 230. A day is what we call the full rotation of the sun and moon around the host star (or so it's thought) and it takes thirty hours for a full day (from sun rising to sun rising again). The day is not yet separated in hours. People use expressions such as sun rising, moon rising, the morrow, today and yesterday. Dawn and dusks are words that exist. There are festivities in the state, such as; Regnum's birthday, the date on which was formed the city-state and on which the recording of time has started. In fact, it's important to note that there is a group of specific elders and sages that are tasked with the keeping of time and events. They form The Calendar and are financed and controlled by the state. Just in case they'd try something funny, but also because the group could be used as leverage or for political ends. Returning to the subject of festivities, there are festivals for each start of a new season.

Cosmology
 Are there any particular beliefs about the sky, stars, comets, e.t.c? Are there any organizations related to cosmic science and who are they and what are their goal?

A: There is a general belief that the stars are the souls of men who did honorable deeds and now watches on the people of the peninsula, giving them protection and blessing. The only religious group that has strong beliefs linked to the cosmos is the Stella Cultis, formed by Erberius. He thinks that, these stars are to be read as they give messages of hope and warnings. Also, astral and cosmic bodies, more astonishing than the stars are revered like gods, such as the sun and the moon, but also strange momentary events like auroras, comets and shooting stars. Eclipses are a bad omen.

Trade and Currency
 What currency do the people of the peninsula use? Who oversees the making and the usage of the currency? Are there any taxes and where does tax-money go? What goods do they trade? With whom do they trade? Are there any specific trade organizations? Are there any set trading routes? What are the legal trade goods and the illegal ones?

A: There is no actual currency, the people bargain their goods. The Senata has suggested the creation of a currency and they are looking into it at present times. There are taxes, which are taken in many forms. Food supplies, live animals, wood, minerals, name it. People usually trade food supplies, but furniture as well as construction goods are definitely not unheard of. Pricing is personal, but the people of the state tend to be fair amongst themselves. They have no established trade routes or trade policies with foreign people, they only trade within the state. Some goods are restricted by the state, such as some types or sizes of weapons, certain animals and a few luxurious goods, but the most considerable is items of mystical powers. Those utility objects or weapons that are imbued with arcane energies are regulated by the Purgator, which is itself regulated by the state. There are no real, organized trade companies, but some families have amassed loads of wealth, either because of their wise dealings or other illicit activities.

Illicit Substances and Acitivities
 Are there any drugs? What are they and how are they acquired? Is there any alcohol? What kind and how is it acquired? Are there any activities considered illegal? What are they and how are they done? Who controls those practices?

A: There are a bunch of small organizations, as well as a few big ones, that dwell in criminality. Extortion, theft, assassination and impersonating are only a parcel of what they do. Getting to the subject of illicit goods, Felweed, Purple Powder and Luminous Mushrooms are three different drugs highly sought after on the black market, as they confer intense pleasure to their user. They are somewhat difficult to obtain and their making is a closely kept secret. Also, alcoholic beverages such as wine as always existed and is far from being a illicit substance, but there are more serious types of alcohol which give their drinker hallucinations.

Law and Punishments
 Are there any strict laws? What are they? Who oversees the respect of the law? What is the punishment for one who has done an illegal deed?

A: There are quite a few laws, describing them here would be too long. The state officials as well as the Bagian Force are tasked with protecting the law. Punishments are varied, depending on the situation. A judge, often a high ranking state official and at dire times, the Regnum himself, makes the final decision.

Routes and Travel
 Are there any routes? How does one travel?

A: There are no established routes as of yet, but the state is hiring men to build some that will lead to the farms outside the city. People usually travel by foot or by riding horses (or other things). Some use magic to travel, it's not unheard of.[/ic]

Reserve
[note]Its clear now that some information has been changed, I won't tell which, but I can say the two last topics are by far the most accurate. Unfortunately, it's still subject to change. Some past information will still be used, of course.[/note]
Characters, coming soon.

So I decided I'd pick up GIMP and play around the toolset to see what I could get. Isomage gave me a tip, but everything was done on my own. :)

First time using GIMP;

(http://i52.tinypic.com/xpvtvp.jpg)

Took me a couple hours and I haven't put in any names or whatever. I intend to.

Tell me what you guys think!

P.S: Of course, all the "plain" land is basically spread, small forests and some rolling (or not) plains. Whatevers green is either dense forest (to the north) or swamps and jungles (east). The brown at top-right is the barren terrain of the Scorched Vastlands and under it lies the savannah. Both are bordering the desert.

> Tell me what you guys think




I think it needs hexes!

(http://i.imgur.com/NJroF.png)




But then I'm obsessed. :D

Seriously, though, great job for your first GIMP map -- especially having made your own custom brushes :)

Haha Iso, thanks!

Hexoman!

I'm completely reworking the setting, in a sense. It lacks much needed flavor. The story will probably keep its main, defining aspects, though that is being revised as well.

The map has been embellished and some of the empty spaces on my map above are now filled with exciting landscapes.

Let's just say that the campaign setting is undergoing a hardcore refinement process.

I felt that I had to rethink the magic element of my setting, which is the primary source of fantasy. It needed a dose of realism and uniqueness instead of just that's that and deal with it. It needed to be more thoroughly (Is this written right?) explained.

Any comment on this would be appreciated.

[ic=Magic on Primeval]Magic
Magic in Primeval is considered like a miracle, an effect or power given by an unknown, more powerful and omnipotent entity; or simply by an unknown, interior force, hidden in every human being which some have learned to use to do unexplainable feats.

But what it's believed to be and what it really is are two completely different things. In fact, magic is what happens when people that are gifted tap in the ether-realm and transfer amounts of its energies into the material world. That's even only a simple explanation, if we push this further and explain the science of magic; we could say that the star on which the setting takes place has a sort of atmospheric layer called, the manalitic layer. This layer is what the gifted name the ether-realm, or simply ether.

Gifted people are those who can see and/or feel this layer of spread, minuscule and blue-white-ish particles. It is not given to everyone and one absolutely needs to be gifted to tap into the ether. Those who are so aren't necessarily born with the aptitude. They might have developed it. Mana is everywhere and touches everything. And thus, it has the strange ability to sometime make people aware of its presence'¦ although, not always in pleasant circumstances and/or ends; meaning one can even be affected by insanity if, sort of, overdosed by the exposure to mana. Needless to say, some weren't born with the required metabolism to withstand the powerful particles of the ether.

It now becomes clear that this mana substance causes secondary effects and one doesn't even have to be a user to feel those effects (in that case it's unlikely to happen, but possible). Those effects will often manifest after extensive usage of the mystical particles; different sorts of mental disorders as well as physical (often internally) dysfunctions might occur, but another, rarer effect would be the total loss of the gift. One is not restricted to getting only one of the effects, many might affect the user at the same time (or not necessarily). With time, many a gifted have tried finding ways to go around it, some have succeeded and others have failed; always at great costs.

Tapping in the ether to transfer arcane energies into the material world is a process one learns either by experimenting on his own, which takes ages; or by being taught by someone who knows, which is generally quicker than experimenting by one self. The key to transferring the energy is using a focus. It can be pretty much any object and some gifted even use their own bodies (it's generally not a suggested practice though). Then, the one who taps in the ether-realm must describe strange arabesques in the air, or inscribe intricate glyphs on a surface to produce the desired effect. There is also a less common way of tapping into the manalitic layer; the voice. Specific and complex sounds will excite the particles which are attuned to everything around them, including sonor vibrations, and create a spontaneous effect. One still needs to be gifted to use his voice to tap into the ether and create supernatural effects.

The science of magic is somewhat still in its debut and most of the people who are gifted are unaware of the infinite possibilities that these particles give them. Though, let it be known that cruel and emotionless men fantasize in the ether-realm, studying ways to unleash destructive powers on the material world.

The Void
The void is not magical and has only distant links with the ether-realm of Primeval, but its sporadic manifestations might seem as if it was the ethers doing. The void is, in fact, the primal essence of the cosmos from which all other substances and elements originate. The truth is, far away in the ebony cosmic realm, a vortex permanently threatens to suck in all things and terminate existence itself. But with so much energy raging in its inside, it constantly pierce, letting its imprisoned energies flow out and spread in all directions, creating universes.

The void is random and incredibly powerful. Primeval is set in a far reaching region of the cosmos, where the gravitational pull of the void is not being felt, but it still manifests, reminding the people of its permanent and menacing presence. It manifests under the form of black holes or simply, holes and at random times as well as random places. Matter, essence and elements are drawn in and extinguished forever, or until they are reborn when the vortex fissures. They create chasms and fissures on landscapes and diminish the water level if it hits the sea. Also, places hit by void holes become dead zones for magic until the particles spread over the place again.

A vortex, as it's called, is the bane of existence. Something that's important to note; some creatures that are affected by the gift have the ability to create void-like effects, which is very deadly.

Magic and Beliefs
I feel that magic on Primeval is closely linked with its denizen beliefs. There is definitely a more shamanistic approach to religion in general in this setting. Fetichism, Elementalism, Naturalism are various types of shamanic practices and beliefs, with each their own unique characteristics. Let it be said that a lot of people/creatures are also atheists, not believing in anything, but themselves.

Enumerating the beliefs and the different sorts of practice of the different sorts of shamanistic approaches would be too long, it's up to the storyteller to be crafty and tell something believable here.[/ic]

An interesting concept. I feel it perhaps explains a little too much though. A setting like this seems to me to let its mystical side remain mysterious. Give the players/readers a strange force to play with and some contradicting beliefs about it with strong religious undertones and let them form their own ideas about what magic is. That's my personal feelings on the subject however and it is your setting so you are well within your rights to tell me to "bug off I like my mana particles". Just felt I'd toss that your way.

Quote from: NomadicAn interesting concept. I feel it perhaps explains a little too much though. A setting like this seems to me to let its mystical side remain mysterious. Give the players/readers a strange force to play with and some contradicting beliefs about it with strong religious undertones and let them form their own ideas about what magic is. That's my personal feelings on the subject however and it is your setting so you are well within your rights to tell me to "bug off I like my mana particles". Just felt I'd toss that your way.

I thought I had kind of done that with the two first paragraphs though. Explaining that different people have different views of what it is, but still felt the need to explain what it really was in the end. I also feared that if I kept it at just the first paragraph it would basically mean returning to point 0 where you guys rifled me with questions about magic. So I just answered them right off the bat. :)

Thanks for the comment. I find that it's better to return to things you've written when you detached yourself from it, so I shall look it up later this week.

Quote from: Magnus Pym

Quote from: NomadicAn interesting concept. I feel it perhaps explains a little too much though. A setting like this seems to me to let its mystical side remain mysterious. Give the players/readers a strange force to play with and some contradicting beliefs about it with strong religious undertones and let them form their own ideas about what magic is. That's my personal feelings on the subject however and it is your setting so you are well within your rights to tell me to "bug off I like my mana particles". Just felt I'd toss that your way.

I thought I had kind of done that with the two first paragraphs though. Explaining that different people have different views of what it is, but still felt the need to explain what it really was in the end. I also feared that if I kept it at just the first paragraph it would basically mean returning to point 0 where you guys rifled me with questions about magic. So I just answered them right off the bat. :)

Thanks for the comment. I find that it's better to return to things you've written when you detached yourself from it, so I shall look it up later this week.

I think perhaps a middle ground might be a good place to look for. To clarify at least what I was asking you about before, my questions were all fluff based so to speak, dealing with the world as an observer on the inside. I want to know how magic interacts with politics, what kind of things it can accomplish, how people use it, what beliefs revolve around it. To better explain myself, the post above was thorough and very informative but also a bit too scientific feeling for a setting that seems so very arcane. It may sound odd but keeping your threads in character (in the sense of your setting being a character) can help draw us in and better understand what sort of feel you truly have for your setting. Making your magic explanation sound more arcane and mystic might sound a little bit silly but it really does help. I hope I'm being clear, it's something that's hard to explain. :)

tl;dr version: make your magic description as if it is being given by a magician in your setting (leaving the more meta game stuff for side notes if you really want to tell us about that).

Oh yeah, ok I get it. Great idea.

This helps. I can totally do something like that.