The Campaign Builder's Guild

I'm not too sure if I'll repost information from my website or not. I'm getting a bit tired of cross-posting, so I may just list updates here and ask for feedback.

http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor (//hyperlinkurl)

Today's updates include a campaign-specific portion of the site that will include the changes that are going to be made to Arvia. I also added an article about Arvia itself, and updated the Kettan article and a few minor details. I fully encourage people to examine my site and point out any typos or inconsistancies so that I can correct them: Much of the information I have has gone through several revisions, and some material draws from different sources of those revisions than others.

Also, I encourage people to check the archived thread at the old CBG boards out.
The link can be found here: http://www.shadowfell.org/CBG/viewtopic.php?t=68&start=0 (//hyperlinkurl)

-Elven Doritos
Open to advice

All right. Let's do it this way:

Anything and everything that you want information about from the Red Valor world, post here. I'll do my best to answer the majority of the inquiries.

-Elven Doritos
Here we go!

The site is coming along swimmingly.

Is the art yours?

no, it's his friends artwork.  I already asked

Quote from: Natural 20no, it's his friends artwork.  I already asked

Nothing like forcing friends and relations to contribute to one's enterprises. ;)

I'm having trouble diving in. Perhaps you could add section to the introduction on where to start?

As for the artwork: It's all done by a friend, as Nat-20 mentioned. His name is Cole Mitzelfelt, and I'll pass along the interest. I sort of commissioned the art, and he really helped the setting come to life.

As for "having trouble diving in"... Well, I don't know really how to make things 'pop' any more. What sort of things would you like to see in the intro?

-Elven Doritos
Pop goes the weasel!

I've modified the Deities section some, and have implemented a new format for several. Anything past Sicloran on the Deities page has the new format.
http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/deities.htm (//hyperlinkurl) for the main list.
http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/veloria.htm (//hyperlinkurl) for an example.

A few quick and mostly-minor comments about your Red Valor site:

On the introduction page, the description is somewhat cliche; consider adding a few points stressing what is unique about the Red Valor setting.  Also, consider replacing the phrase "not-interacting deities" with something that sounds more mysterious, like "distant deities."

Also, on the deities page, consider adding a brief description of each deity; a list of names and domains doesn't inspire me to play a cleric devoted to one of these under-developed beings.

The "under-developed beings" have links that you can click to go to, and a lot of the later ones in the alphabet are better developed. I've got more content for them, but I'm working about three other projects (mostly school-related) right about now. Oy.

I'll take the non-interactive thing into consideration. I'm not entirely sure what makes the setting unique. I'm mostly going for a traditional campaign without a great deal of innovation or modification, a fantasy world where about any story can be told.

I put a good deal of effort into an article today:

Go here:http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/churchofsicloran.htm (//hyperlinkurl) for the pretty version.

   The Church of Sicloran was the first truly organized religious body to emerge from the chaos surrounding the Rionian coup and the ascension of the current pantheon. Shaken by the loss of their patrons, the Kettonian Empire was on the verge of political and military collapse. The solidification of the Church of Sicloran within the Western Principalities of the Kettonian Empire was a leading factor to the Kettonian Civil War, and the fierce devotion that the early members of the Church displayed for the people of the Western Realms helped the Siclorians gain the trust and support of the populace. When the Kettonian Civil War broke out, the Church still lacked an organized hierarchy and a definitive structure. This uncertainty lasted until 3 RA, when a newly-converted vicar of Sicloran received a vision from his deity about how the Church should be structured. This man, Coreph Denostrian of Valgaard, became the central figure within the early Church and helped established the principles and doctrines still practiced presently.
   Coreph, a former acolyte of the deceased god Galloth, understood the dangers of a highly regimented clergy and set guidelines designed to curtail abuse, corruption, bureaucracy,  incompetence, arrogance, and untruthfulness within the newly titled Blessed Church of Sicloran the Savior. Coreph collected these guiding principles in his work the Nature of Power and Celestial Mandates, which soon became known as one of the leading documents that challenged contemporary idealogy of rulership and power. It was also the first known text to place higher value on both tradition and divine right to the throne than on a ruler's character, a fact that has been disputed since its inception. Current philosophical opponents to the Nature of Power and Celestial Mandates include Chancellor Hiru Mentalli of Vestin, Emperor Kolann I of Ketta, Allander d'Vortin (an influential philosopher from Arvia) and Emperor Kozuma of Azran.
   Another key point of Coreph's newly established hierarchy was the status of visionaries within the Church. Too long had the prophets of the Dethinian Gods been ignored by established states, and it is believed that this directly led to the fall of organized Dethinan faith and also the collapse of the Kettonian Empire. As a reminder of this, Coreph prophesied that true prophets would immediately ascend to command of the Church by order of Sicloran himself so that the Savior's direct link could shape the religion effectively and quickly. Coreph also established the secretive Trials of the Prophet, the method used for determining the legitimacy of a prophet of Sicloran. The nature of the Trials would later become the leading influence of the Rites of Rulership in Torinnia after the ex-communication of Fellior Treth the False Prophet.
   Another legacy of the collapsed Kettonian Empire within the Church of Sicloran is the usage of the old names of Kettonian principalities for the titles of the various dioceses. This practice has been heavily debated throughout the history of the Church primarily because of the rather bloody legacy the Kettonian Empire has in the annals of history. However, in keeping with church doctrine, the tradition has been preserved.
   Since the death of Coreph, there have been a total of twelve Grand High Prophets of Sicloran. Each has played an influential role throughout the history of the Church and their appearance often coincides with a key political or cosmic event (or both). The Church has expanded into every nation on the Tare and has missionaries in both Delphia and Dontorr. Today, there are approximately three million worshippers of the Savior.

Grand High Prophet of Sicloran: Given to rare visionaries and confirmable prophets, who are then granted considerable authority within the church. It should be noted that this formal styling  is the only in which the phrase "of the Church" is omitted, indicating a closer relationship to Sicloran than the other members of the clergy enjoy. The official styling of a Grand High Prophet of Sicloran is rarely shortened, even in casual address.
   The current Grand High Prophet of Sicloran, formerly Elect Bishop Andioch Lozar of the Western Principality of Kalumarc,

Sacred and Divine High Priest of the Church of Sicloran: The highest-ranking priest within the church of Sicloran, the High Priest is selected by a vote of the College of Holy Cardinals. The High Priest is the administrative head of the Church during times of which there is no Grand High Prophet of Sicloran, and is also an administrative aide to the Grand High Prophet of Sicloran during their reign.
   The current High Priest of the Church of Sicloran is Anthros Kirin of Cathedral. Due to the statutes laid out in Nature of Power and Celestial Mandates,  Anthros is automatically the Bishop of Cathedral due to its unique position as not only the "official base" of the Church of Sicloran but also because of the Church's legal sovereignty within the bounds of Cathedral. Should the Church's authority legally extend beyond this, then it is unknown whether the bishopric will be expanded into other dioceses or if new boundaries will be established.  

Glorious Lord Commander of the Church of Sicloran and Consecrated High General of the Righteous Army: The only member of the Church's military wing, the Righteous Army of Sicloran, to have a status within the hierarchy of the church proper is that of the Lord Commander. The only military post established by Grand High Prophet Coreph, it is the canon of the Church's teachings that it was Coreph's intention for the High General to command and independently manage the affairs of a standing military dedicated to the destruction of evil and the preservation of Siclorian values. As such, the Righteous Army's activities have rarely been challenged by the College of the Holy Cardinals primarily because the army's bulk is of paladins (whose relationship with Sicloran transcends the Church's authority according to Nature of Power and Celestial Mandates).
   The current Lord Commander is Ivan Holyshield, a well-respected Vestin native who gained a good deal of prominence during the Vestin Civil War. Well respected by both armies, there was some demand for him to run for election to the Council of Sages. Holyshield declined, wishing to turn his service away from a national identity and towards his god. His rank was transferred to the Righteous Army, and after the death of his aged predecessor, Ivan was chosen by the leadership of the Righteous Army as its leader and representative within the Church's hierarchy. Holyshield's warmth, kindness, and respectable record have earned him many political allies both within the Church and without.

Holy Cardinal and Celestial Minister of the Church of Sicloran: The praetors and foremost religious scholars within the Church of Sicloran, the Holy Cardinals hold a good deal of authority and influence both within the religion and also within the regions where the Church is predominate. As an example, from the end of the Era of Chaos in 614 RA until the end of the Crown Wars in 834 RA, the Cardinal of Armnevestin (roughly situated within the three southernmost quarters of Vestin) was a legal aide responsible for the any domestic travel and affair within the the Kingdom of Vestin. The College of the Holy Cardinals is the leading body within the Church, and it is this body that advises the Grand High Prophet of Sicloran and the High Priest.
   Currently, the College of Holy Cardinals consists of one hundred members.

Chosen Archbishop and Beloved Sage of the Church of Sicloran: The only position within the hierarchy not explicitly defined in Nature of Power and Celestial Mandates, the nature of the Archbishopric is a bit complex within the Church. Typically, an Archbishop of Sicloran oversees three bishoprics, and in return, three Archbishops report to an individual cardinal. Created to ease the workload of Cardinals, Archbishops have often been cited as lacking anything other than the most basic administrative powers. This criticism, in addition to the absence of archbishops in Nature of Power and Celestial Mandates, has often been used to dispel the position altogether. As of yet, the College of Holy Cardinals has not considered this proposal.
   Currently, there are exactly three hundred Archbishops of he Church of Sicloran.

Elect Bishop and Virtuous Mentor of the Church of Sicloran: The bishopric is the most basic administrative district within the Church and Bishops hold a decent amount of political and religious influence in the regions that they are charged with. Their primary obligations remain the coordination of the priests within their diocese and monitoring local events. Also, they are placed in charge of barons, dukes, and lords who pledge themselves as Presbyters.
   Currently, there are about nine hundred Bishops of the Church of Sicloran.

Regal Presbyter and Honored Regent of the Church of Sicloran: An interesting position lined out in Nature of Power and Celestial Mandates is that of local rulers who pledge themselves both to a national liege and to the service of Sicloran. Although Grand High Prophet Coreph wisely omitted any mention of influence over a national ruler (due to the high political tensions of his time), many kings in both Arvia and Vestin have been awarded the title periodically. Currently, there are only three Presbyters of the Church of Sicloran.

Blessed Priest and Devout Father of the Church of Sicloran: This is the general title given to clerics who are trained in holy magic and are ordained within the doctrines of the Church. The obligations of priests include managing the affairs of an individual temple, delivering weekly sermons, advising the faithful, and proselytizing to locals. Winning converts and performing acts of selflessness are the most common methods that priests gain prestige within the Church. The other ranks of the Church, excluding Presbyters and perhaps the Lord Commander, are drawn exclusively from the ranks of the priesthood.
   There are approximately one thousand priests per bishopric. Due to their invested interest in people's well-being and their lack of serious commitments, priests are the most likely individuals to be adventurers.

Faithful Acolyte of the Church of Sicloran: This term refers to laypeople who have received a degree of religious training. They assist priests and handle the everyday matters of larger temples. Acolytes are the most likely individuals within the hierarchy to have an occupation unrelated to the Church and also the least likely to advance further in the hierarchy. They are also the least likely to be adventurers.
   Considering the ambient nature of acolytes, there is no solid estimate for their number.

I stand corrected about the deities.  For some reason, I was being silly and not thinking that the names on the table were links.  Your pantheon is quite interesting.

And don't sell yourself short when it comes to your setting being unique.  Unique doesn't have to be a wierd gimmick.  It could just be a sentence or two of fluff that sums up the feel you want your world to have, or an interesting quote that captures an angle that the reader might not otherwise have thought of.

EDIT: I'd be curious to hear at the opening why the name Red Valor was chosen for your setting.  I noticed that there is a legendary blade named Red Valor, but what about the nature of Red Valor makes it a central theme in your world?  If the answer to that question is concise, I think it would make for a nice opening remark to add some more flavor to your Red Valor intro page.

RV: 1301
With a final strike from his pick, Braddle stepped through the crevice he had bore into the black stone wall. With a wipe of his brow, the somber gnome slowly looked around the massive chamber, a sense of awe pervading his normally pragmatic and crass mannerisms seemed to melt away. Richly decorated walls and a lavish throne marked this as the tower's centermost room. Braddle looked curiously to the statue that sat upon the throne, head bent low with a long, golden beard reaching to meet its knees in a somehow dignified manner as long hair of the same hue cascaded downn its back. Braddle walked softly toward the statue and looked at it curiously, prodding it in the knee.

This was no statue! With a flash of movement, the long-dormant figure pinned Braddle against the marble floor, a flash of confusion in his weathered golden eyes. With a mighty rumble akin to the crackle of thunder, the being demanded, "Who are you, so foolish to invade this sepulchre of the glory of past?"

Braddle quivered uncharacteristically and stammered, "Good sir... By all accounts, this tomb was empty!"

Anger flooded into the bearded man's face. "This is no tomb. This is my home, good gnome, and you are but an intruder"

Braddle bristled and hastily replied, "Please, m'lord, I meant no harm. I will leave."

With a quick toss, the man released Braddle from his grasp. After a long silence, he quietly spoke. "I... apologize for my behavior. Tell me.... what year is it?"

Braddle looked to him curiously. "It is the Seventh Year of the New Age, marked by the fall of the hated Empire."

The man looked down, taking a seat on his throne. "What year, on the Rionian calender?"

Braddle closed his eyes, doing a quick calculation. "1301, sir, though the Rionian calender is rarely used in the East."

The man shook his head again. "Then much has changed in the past thirty years."

Braddle's eyes snapped open with a flash of realization. "Then you're Ka-"

A quick gesture from the seated man halted the gnome's revelation. "I forswore that name when I was forced into solitude. What has happened since I began my isolation?"

Braddle sat on the dusty floor, sighing deeply. "This will take a while, m'lord, but in short, the Era of Legend is over. An age, named the Time of Heroes, is upon us."

Intrigued, the weathered man leaned forward, his eyes watching the gnome. "Tell me everything."

-----
In short, I'm working on a revolutionary project for the Red Valor setting that will revolutionize and revitalize the "canon" material of the setting. The official setting date is going to be advanced about 50 years during which many key events will cause the emergence of several new nations, deities, historical events, and virtually every other aspect of the setting.

This is a project, mind you, and is still in the developmental phases. If you have any input (beyond "Don't do dat!", unless you have reasons that back up your sentiment), feel free to contact me through the many means provided on my site and here on CBG. I'm accepting all kinds of criticisms and ideas, because at this point, 1301 is a rough concept with a few main ideas sketched out.

~Elven Doritos
Master & Commander

My opinion is that if you feel this will make the setting better, then by all mean continue.  On a nice related note however, i'm glad to recognize Braddle, even if he is not the same character I remember.

Project 1301 Update

It is an age of new nations.
After the strife and chaos that led to the Maximelian Imperial War and the Artorian Conquest, the former nations of the Tare have formerly dissolved and fragmented into smaller nations that vary from kingdoms to theocracies, from magocracies to brutal dicatorships. New nations are drawn along lines of religion, prestige, tradition, military power, race, and natural resource.

Also, the official homepage of Project 1301. (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/project1301.htm)

Here's a teaser-- the current map of the new countries of the Tare.
[spoiler=Map](http://webzoom.freewebs.com/red_valor/1301%20Map%20Small.jpg)[/spoiler]

Project 1301 Preview: New Deity

Kynorne (Greater Kynornian Deity)
The Cerulean Lord, Krio-Kynorne, Lord Protector of the Azure Road
Alignment: Neutral Good
Portfolio: Rulership, kindness, hospitality brotherhood, fortitude
Domains: Healing, Good, Protection, Travel
Worshipers: Rulers, diplomats, travelers, bards
Symbol: A cerulean longsword
Cleric Alignments: LG, NG, CG
Favored Weapon: Longsword

Kynorne (KIE-norn) is the  patriach of the newly-formed Kynornian pantheon and the chief diplomat with the other deific factions that have emerged since the Blood Quest. A rather quirky individual, Kynorne is known to have a good humor and a ready smile. He is quick to anger, however, at those who mistreat the poor, the helpless, those who invoke his blessings, and those who seek hospitality. In an era of uncertain politics and confused nationality, Kynorne commands his followers to grant amnesty to all who seek it regardless of race, profession, or creed.

History/Relationships: As the first of the New Gods to arise as a result of the Glorious Ascension, Kynorne's very existence is subject to as much speculation as it is actual fact. What is known is that during the rampage of the Anti-Mage throughout the former Realm of the Dead, Xepharia, many deities from both the ancient Dethinian pantheon and the Rionian pantheon were obliterated and their divine essence was scattered into an infinite number of pieces. As all the gods lay either dead, stripped of power, or in hiding on Perann, the Anti-Mage was confronted by some horrible force that had apparently been manipulating the genocidal warrior for decades. In an act of utter despair, the Anti-Mage forswear his forbidden powers and, as divine energy coaelesced around him, became the catalyst for an extraordinary apotheosis that birthed Kynorne, the new creator deity.

Kynorne, born from darkness and light, summoned the remaining gods from their hiding and restored their power. He then set about creating an entire pantheon to serve the needs of the frightened and confused people of Perann, both good and evil, lawful and chaotic, and everything in between. The Cerulean Lord was accorded the position of ruler by his new creations and the restored powers of old, all believing the amicable deity to be a level-headed and clever peacemaker.

Kynorne, although a firm believer in good and the furtherance of brotherhood, does not impose his beliefs on other deities in the pantheon. He clearly expresses his disdain for actions he sees as evil and hate-filled, but recognizes that the actions of evil gods are needed to provide contrast to his follower's own beliefs.

Goals: Kynorne's goals are still shrouded in mystery. Above all, he sees friendly relations between both neighbors and nations as being the main priority for the people of the Tare and keeps his focus both on helping his charges and administering the affairs of the Kynornian pantheon.

Appearance: Kynorne is depicted as a lithe humanoid with ears similar to a half-elf, with light blue skin and dark blue hair and robes. A black halo, composed of tiny shards of energy that have coalesced together, hangs above his head while his hand firmly grips an electrum sword.

An extension to the history of Red Valor was added to Project 1301 (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/1301timeline.htm)

I hate to pester your divine genius, but as it would appear you are mortal like the rest of us, I have a question. Does the new work on project 1301 and all your new updates mean that the fiction you have produced will be abandoned?

EDIT: It's alright if it is, but I am wondering...

The fiction isn't "abandoned", per se, it's just on hold. My game comes first, my fiction second-- I have every intention of continuing work when I find the time. (Graduating soon and all)

Good news, and I look forward to it.  You have to admit though, it is annoying when a story is read and never finished, so I hope you can understand my desire to hear the tales of Kamon Rikomi continue.

Anyway, I know whatever you make will be great, be it fiction or game material.

The first nation (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/aarington.htm) of Project 1301 is up.

New deity (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/balzara.htm) added to Project 1301.

Balzara is certainly a ballbuster! :knock:  :hammer:

Good fundamentalist attitude there.

Better watch what you say... you never know when Balzara is listening!

~LoLven Doritos

Quote from: Elven DoritosBetter watch what you say... you never know when Balzara is listening!

~LoLven Doritos

She's everywhere!

Today's deity (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/norrak.htm) and today's country (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/ergoth.htm).

Yesterday's deity (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/keoginax.htm) and yesterday's country (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/bainland.htm). Today's will be up later on.

Didn't get around to the second batch yesterday, but I did get today's done: Deity (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/xathia.htm) and country (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/easternkettanrepublic.htm).

Today's deity (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/carthos.htm) and country (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/ryozedron.htm), mates!

Quote from: Elven DoritosToday's deity (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/carthos.htm) and country (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/ryozedron.htm), mates!

I love the Shogunate, and I con't wait to see the kinds of nations and deities that will spring up next. Project 1301 seems like it must be loads of fun. Advancing the meta-plot, re-aligning the political borders, the ascention of new gods, it has got to feel like a breath of fresh air for a world in which you've played for years.

-Peace-

P.S. The new gods are all interesting and unique. None of them seem boring or "standard," which is probably exactly what you were gunning for.

Quote from: nastynateI love the Shogunate, and I con't wait to see the kinds of nations and deities that will spring up next. Project 1301 seems like it must be loads of fun. Advancing the meta-plot, re-aligning the political borders, the ascention of new gods, it has got to feel like a breath of fresh air for a world in which you've played for years.

-Peace-

P.S. The new gods are all interesting and unique. None of them seem boring or "standard," which is probably exactly what you were gunning for.

Yep, my thoughts exactly. My internet situation has thrown me a few days behind, but I'll hopefully catch up pretty soon... Today's only offering is the new page design and Centinia, Tricameral Plutocracy (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/centinia.htm)!

Country (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/verdantbeastlands.htm) and deity (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/lylliana.htm): you know the drill.

A magocracy (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/eladrannia.htm) and a Neutral Good deity (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/telim.htm).

Today's only offering is the mysterious deity, Illam Niruhet (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/illamniruhet.htm).

Centinia is a country of yours that I was reading over. It is cool how the system is organized into the different entities. The Directory of Treasurery seems like a pretty boorish thing that keeps all the economy at its best by handling the loans and debts of the country. I'm just not sure how they can't be or are connected to the other two. Obviously, if the Reserve has debts then they Edmund has to try to pay them off on his own. I just don't see some of the point of having these "two" different entities if both represent the finances of the country. The COBC is a typical kind of merchant thing but I think it goes well for this country so you should just keep that or keep it to help odify the other two.

Quote from: WixmanCentinia is a country of yours that I was reading over. It is cool how the system is organized into the different entities. The Directory of Treasurery seems like a pretty boorish thing that keeps all the economy at its best by handling the loans and debts of the country. I'm just not sure how they can't be or are connected to the other two. Obviously, if the Reserve has debts then they Edmund has to try to pay them off on his own. I just don't see some of the point of having these "two" different entities if both represent the finances of the country. The COBC is a typical kind of merchant thing but I think it goes well for this country so you should just keep that or keep it to help odify the other two.

The Directory of the Treasury's primary function, at least as it was originally intended by Mohen Lorell, is an analogue to modern state treasuries. It "sells" bonds and loans to other businesses and regulates the money supply, and the reason it was specifically made a seperate entity by Mohen Lorell is that he anticipated the innate greed that a single powerful guild or council could have over the economy and did not wish for a single organization to wield supreme economic and legislative power-- by dividing the affairs into three distinct groups, he created an innate system of checks and balances. As he knew the nature of capitalism is to encourage ambition and play to greed, he reminded the Directors, the CBOC Committee members, and the staff of the Reserve that any merger into another company would ultimately decrease their personal power and dull the edge of their capacity. It was this precedent of built-in checks that he hoped would stem corruption and consolidation.

~ElDo

So, it might mean a few more red tapes but it will nullify the ability to gain supreme political power, right?

Wonderfully put. Yes.

New country: Artoria, State in Denial (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/artoria.htm) added-- I should be back later for a deity update.

I love Artoria, very very cool.  The last lines there were killers.

Yeah, I'm rather happy with how that one turned out. :)

New country (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/dravenica.htm) and new deity... sort of (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/draven1301.htm).

The revisions to the Red Valor campaign setting are so much fun to read. New nations, newly ascended gods, and new ideas, make it feel almost like a whole new world altogether. It makes me long to revise my old homebrew of years long ago.

Pushing the timeline forward and introducing new elements must feel very refreshing, and very liberating. In my humble opinion this is one of the rare meta-plot advances that is an improvement over the prior campaign. It's like a sequel that is better than the original. Your changes feel spurred on by the need to keep things new and interesting (at least it seems like it to me) rather than to continue a storyline beyond its prime. I admire you for keeping Red Valor alive in this way, rather than moving on to a new world.

The new nations seem very interesting (one and all) though I would like to see some hold-overs from the past continue to hang on to their old methods and ideals. Too much change makes RV feel like a world that fell apart and needed to be rebuilt. RV was too good to throw away everything and start from scratch in this way. Are there any nations or cultures that have survived, and do you plan to write them up?

I do like your newly ascended gods. The old pantheon was kind of dry and the new gods are sooo much more interesting. They feel like naive young gods (well naive as far as gods go) with a much greater interest in the world, than the stuffy old deities of the streotypical genre. Bravo on their implimentation thus far, but again what is going to happen to old guard?

I think Project 1301 is excellent, but I would hate to think that nothing from the old world will survive. I have seen many cool NPC villains, and story archs that go back well into the old setting, but try to keep more of the old stuff around too. I would love to see old ideas revised to a modern modern feel, that would help the setting feel more continuous, rather than like something completely different. Speaking of which where is Red Valor (the sword) now?

In short all the new stuff is good. Not one thing has dissapointed me or felt forced, contrived, or incomplete. I would like to see more of a connection however between the world of 1301 and the world of yester year. The again maybe you already have this in works, and it simply hasn't been posted on your site yet.

-Peace Out-

Quote from: nastynateThe revisions to the Red Valor campaign setting are so much fun to read. New nations, newly ascended gods, and new ideas, make it feel almost like a whole new world altogether. It makes me long to revise my old homebrew of years long ago.

The praise is making me blush. Stop it.

Wait, don't. ;)

Quote from: nastynatePushing the timeline forward and introducing new elements must feel very refreshing, and very liberating. In my humble opinion this is one of the rare meta-plot advances that is an improvement over the prior campaign. It's like a sequel that is better than the original. Your changes feel spurred on by the need to keep things new and interesting (at least it seems like it to me) rather than to continue a storyline beyond its prime. I admire you for keeping Red Valor alive in this way, rather than moving on to a new world.

RV's main focus as a game world has always been internal consistancy, and the meta-plot has been advanced to its latest possible point that I had "planned" out. I'd like to think that by shoring up the old storylines and setting them out to dry, I've got a chance to go looking for different fish.

Quote from: nastynateThe new nations seem very interesting (one and all) though I would like to see some hold-overs from the past continue to hang on to their old methods and ideals. Too much change makes RV feel like a world that fell apart and needed to be rebuilt. RV was too good to throw away everything and start from scratch in this way. Are there any nations or cultures that have survived, and do you plan to write them up?

Little nuggets here and there are possible. All the clans from Torrinnia have been dispersed throughout the continent (several of the good-aligned ones formed House Auria, the Tigereyes are in Centinia, etc.). The Northern nations hold their legacy as well as hold onto a lot of the ideas and customs of the less-documented parts of Perann.

Looking at the map alone, there are a few nuggets in the South as well. Vestin remains, and is split again into the Southern Kingdom and Northern Republic. Meanwhile, the Siclorians have moved a bit further east and established a theocracy very similar to what was being unveiled in Arvia just before 1301 launched, while some other well-established bits of RV lore are getting into the shared spotlight.

Quote from: nastynateI do like your newly ascended gods. The old pantheon was kind of dry and the new gods are sooo much more interesting. They feel like naive young gods (well naive as far as gods go) with a much greater interest in the world, than the stuffy old deities of the streotypical genre. Bravo on their implimentation thus far, but again what is going to happen to old guard?

The new gods are basically kids with the ultimate playtoys, yeah. For beings with a potentially unlimited lifespan, they've been in existence for less than 20 years-- needless to say, there are a lot of heads being butted in the House of Kynorne.

But as for the "old guard", as you put it: Draven and Sicloran, probably the two best deities from the earlier pantheon, are already slated for appearance (Draven and his semi-theocracy already have a write-up, to boot!). To top that, gods older than the Rionian pantheon are numerous, thus adding a third level of complexity: Dethinian gods detest the usurper Rionians. Expect a few surprises with the later deity entries as well-- even I don't know who will show up.

Quote from: nastynateI think Project 1301 is excellent, but I would hate to think that nothing from the old world will survive. I have seen many cool NPC villains, and story archs that go back well into the old setting, but try to keep more of the old stuff around too.

Trust me, 1301 is about opening doors, not closing them. Many of the older and ancient foes are still around, and only the more present dangers from the 1250's have been stripped of their intrigue.

Which reminds of a point to address. The main reason for 1301 isn't for reviving the setting, a chance to redo the deities, or even to open up options for myself as a storyteller (although these are all very big benefits). The driving force behind 1301 is the expansion of options for players in the story, to shift the power from a few iconic NPCs and nations to a wide variety of choices. It allows for a more dynamic and versatile gaming experience, expanding both the potential for imagination and innovation.

Quote from: nastynateI would love to see old ideas revised to a modern modern feel, that would help the setting feel more continuous, rather than like something completely different. Speaking of which where is Red Valor (the sword) now?

Some of the Old Relics are still hanging about, most notably the Great Library of Azran (a famous spot for players to visit). A lot of stuff has been renamed due to two over-zealous continental Emperors, but the past is certainly something that will hold as much importance as it did before. The Swords of the Ancients are still lingering about, mind you, as are many other artifacts, organizations, and beings stirred up in the nearly-apocalyptic battle in 1270 RA. After that incident, though, a lot of the former people and organizations are either dead or recouping their power, and the same can be said for artifacts that have been hidden or destroyed.

As for where Red Valor is, it's wherever the plot needs it to be. Eventually, when things quiet down, I may release a "canon" location for it.

Quote from: nastynateIn short all the new stuff is good. Not one thing has dissapointed me or felt forced, contrived, or incomplete. I would like to see more of a connection however between the world of 1301 and the world of yester year. The again maybe you already have this in works, and it simply hasn't been posted on your site yet.

-Peace Out-
[/quote]

To summarize: Yes, the world will be more complete (as an aside, it feels more complete simply by having the history pages merged-- it's a big difference). I'm humbled by the praise, and I honestly feel as you do-- it's a step forward for the meta-plot, not a step back. I've gotten a lot of the "uniqueness" of 1301 out, and expect a few governments, especially in the South, that are more reminicient to the older ways and the older history. The North is something of a new frontier, whereas the South represents the Tare's history and tradition.

~Elven Doritos
A Simple Scribe from Vestin

New country (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/artorium.htm) added today.

Today's god (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/lazrenivol.htm) is up, despite the I've been falling behind.

Whoa! Look at the crippling lack of updates!

New nation! (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/veovisinia.htm)

Aarington: There is nothing too memorable about Aarington. Again a lot of name dropping. I had to go back to remember what happened. Nothing stuck out. It is just a passing of the torch excerpt

Ergoth: There seem to be a reason for things that have happened. The thing that is slow going for me is that their s a lot of name dropping. I am not too familiar with the setting and the names don't mean much to me. Like "the new boundaries were drawn by Elador Orvead and Myzra of Newport in 1277." I like Ergoth taking power after a convient uprising. :) Very appropriate for how many nobles came into power.

There is one thing I was wondering. Why did Ergoth draft his entire population? What did they think of it beyond surprise? Do they get training every so often and work on farms and such when not  training? (Like the US Reserves) Are nobles able to get out of duty?

Bainlands: I like the fact that you didn't just end the feuds. How did the goblins pull the wool over everyones eyes? What did they do that finally got them caught? Do people come to the Council seeking vengence for fallen family members or just dish out their own justice? After years of warring what do the people think of living under the rule of the Council of Five, knowing their former foes are making the laws. Are cities segregated? Have there been any assassination attempts on the Treilenads, Ralgore or Bagrann?

Eastern Kettan Republic: Why did Holy Emperor Artorius abdicated his throne/ I keep seeing this but I haven't seen why. I don't see why all three factions hate Praetor Magnus Denurium. If I were part of the "Federalist" (you didn't give them a name), I would be taking advantage of the assassination attempts and try to sway him into taking power from the Senate. If he has had so many attempts on his life why hasn't he given up power?

Ryozedron: This country seems like it is going to have problems for years to come. Do old member of the Council of Shadows know the people that replace them? How does the Council get new members if one should step down, die, etc..? What is to keep them or old members quiet about the identities?

Some awesome questions, and I'll try my best to answer them.

Quote from: PoseidotuneErgoth: There seem to be a reason for things that have happened. The thing that is slow going for me is that their s a lot of name dropping. I am not too familiar with the setting and the names don't mean much to me. Like "the new boundaries were drawn by Elador Orvead and Myzra of Newport in 1277." I like Ergoth taking power after a convient uprising. :) Very appropriate for how many nobles came into power.

There is one thing I was wondering. Why did Ergoth draft his entire population? What did they think of it beyond surprise? Do they get training every so often and work on farms and such when not  training? (Like the US Reserves) Are nobles able to get out of duty?

Eastern Kettan Republic: Why did Holy Emperor Artorius abdicated his throne/ I keep seeing this but I haven't seen why. I don't see why all three factions hate Praetor Magnus Denurium. If I were part of the "Federalist" (you didn't give them a name), I would be taking advantage of the assassination attempts and try to sway him into taking power from the Senate. If he has had so many attempts on his life why hasn't he given up power?[/quote]
Ryozedron: This country seems like it is going to have problems for years to come. Do old member of the Council of Shadows know the people that replace them? How does the Council get new members if one should step down, die, etc..? What is to keep them or old members quiet about the identities?
[/quote]do[/i] know the nature of their power, the idea of mutual protection is what secures their secrecy-- more than one member of the Council has "disappeared" when his loyalty was called into question. In this model, Ryozo himself appoints the members of the Council personally, and selects a suitable replacement.

Update!

Uru-Telek, the orc anarchy! (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/urutelek.htm)

When Project 1301 becomes canon, expect the core ethos and the general tone of the overall setting to evolve as well. After the collapse of the Artorian Empire, Red Valor has lost some of its "innocence": the moral lines become more ambiguous as politics become more prominent and deities less so.

The cardinal alignments and absolute morality died with the Rionian pantheon. Without spirtual guidance, many "evil" races began to reconsider the nature of their existence and the draw of evil.

But the "forces of good" would hear nothing of it. They felt that the absence of their gods was a monstrous plot, and continued their crusades against the orcs, the goblins, and the giants. The monsters are now angry and firm in their beliefs-- "evil" is a relative term coined by those who never gave them the chance to change.

So much for redemption, eh?

havent read too much on 1301, but i do have a couple minor questions so far...

first, in the short fiction used for the introduction, the man who woke up seems to have been at least a semi-important figure before the fall of the empire. i imagine his isolation was an event worthy of noting, if it was remembered thirty years afterward, but therres nothing on the timeline about it. are there any noteworthy details on this, or did Braddle simply remember something from his own, personal past?

also, in 1270 RA, you mention lazarus (i'd love to see this guy statted out, by the way) got incapacitated by Diamar soldiers, and in his profile, you mention that he was incapacitated by Wolfsbane. since he managed to recover from the attack from Wolfsbane, would it be safe to assume he recovered from the attack from the soldiers? or was there some special circumstance that kept him 'dead', longer?

Quote from: sdragonalso, in 1270 RA, you mention lazarus (i'd love to see this guy statted out, by the way) got incapacitated by Diamar soldiers, and in his profile, you mention that he was incapacitated by Wolfsbane. since he managed to recover from the attack from WolHefsbane, would it be safe to assume he recovered from the attack from the soldiers? or was there some special circumstance that kept him 'dead', longer?

Since the Wolfsbane incident, Lazarus has been offed several times, and people have found that it's getting increasingly difficult to keep him dead. The shakeup on the planes disrupted Lazarus' resurrection cycle, but as long as his spirit and body remain seperate, he's eventually going to come back-- so, in short, if he is back, he's in hiding again, and if he isn't, he'll be back.

For more Lazarus-related goodness, see the deity Lazrenivol.

New nation, Sicloria, is up! (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/sicloria.htm)

[spoiler]Be prepared for a major curveball at the end.[/spoiler]

New nation, plus: THE ORIGIN OF THE AZERS! (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/borenheim.htm)

Dun dun dun...

I debuted another feature of the site today:
Voila! (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/rvcsbehindthescenes.htm)

My design diary! I hope to give readers a more intricate look at the Red Valor world through the lens of its creator.

New (sorta) country for today (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/northvestin.htm)

All right, just out of curiosity, who's currently reading any of Red Valor?

Are there any topics you'd like to be expanded on?

The country writeups are going to continue over the course of the next few weeks, and after that, I'll pump out the rest of the pantheon (that shouldn't take as long). Then, to make Rael happy, I can foresee 1301 becoming "canon", and the rest of the site being updated accordingly.

~ElDo

Ok, so I started reading Vestin, but couldn't get past "the Clockwork Army." I couldn't find it anywhere else, and I want to hear more about that! Either point me to it, or write more, I'm really curious.

Quote from: Xathan, The ReturnedOk, so I started reading Vestin, but couldn't get past "the Clockwork Army." I couldn't find it anywhere else, and I want to hear more about that! Either point me to it, or write more, I'm really curious.

There's bits and pieces, here and there. Largest section is in the original Vestin entry (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/therepublicofvestin.htm).

I've got a new project that I'm probably going to kick into high gear, in order to help my writer's block (and, most importantly, for my upcoming campaign).
Khamil Hashim covered his eyes from the glare off of the sand as he reached for his waterskin. Putting it to his parched lips and tipping upward, his eyes widened in horror as he realized it was empty.

"Impossible," the dark-skinned man said in his native tongue of Ashram. "I am certain I had three days worth..."

The sands shifted around him suddenly, forming intricate, long patterns across its surface. Khamil put his waterskin away spurred on his mount, knowing he now had bigger problems than a lack of water. As the spark-filled mouth of a grotesque, blue-skinned monster emerged from the soil, Khamil drew his scimitar and kukri and raised them to the sky in prayer to Teleman, the Dekarran god of battle.

As the creature shot upward out of the dunes and into the sky, Khamil knew he was in more trouble than he previously believed. An arc of blue-black lightning came from its mouth impossibly quick, and Khamil was barely able to leap out of the way; his steed was not so lucky. With a growl, he moved his blades in an intricate meditative pattern. "Back into the sands with you, the cursed scion of Atran..."

The monster simply grinned as it slammed back into the sands. Khamil knew it was not over. His grip tightened on his blades as he sung a soft, haunting tune, another form of battle meditation.

A vortex appeared around him, as the laughing, thrashing mouth of the beast appeared at its center.

As the sands swallowed the swordsman, his hand shot upward, praying that his clan would avenge him.

Just another day under the burning sun.

The content is going to be CBG Exclusive for the duration of my players' stay on the wind-swept depths of the desert continent.

[spoiler=Project 1301 info]P1301 is getting closer to completion, and I've started compiling transitional pages to help update the site proper to the changes of the 1301 timeline. I will probably transit the site before I complete the nation and deity writeups, just so that I can canonize and prioritize my information.[/spoiler]

WOOOOOOO! 1301 cannonized! WOOOOOOO! New age of Red Valor! WOOOOOOO!

DONTORR: An Overview
Population: 3,402,100
Primary Climate Arrays: Warm desert, warm mountain, warm plains, cold desert, cold plains
Power Groups: The Sultan al-Asuul, the Emirs of Dekarr, the Bandit Princes (notably AlÃ,, 'ad-DÃ,,«n), the Djinni Caliphs (formerly of Teth-Akara, now known as New Vestin), the Spawn of Atran

There are five major eras in Dontorran history.

[spoiler=The Age of Glory]
Millenia ago, an ancient empire spanned across the face of Dontorr, united the human people beneath mighty wizard-priests as their rulers. This empire, known as Evalm-Senaak, created artifacts of untold power and wielded magic that impressed the gods themselves. They were a blessed people, living in happiness and prosperity in the rolling hills and bountiful joys of their realm.

Their happiness would not last. For some unknown reason, attributed in various legends as an act of a jealous deity, an attempt to grab divine power by one of the priests in the ultimate hubris, the revenge of the land itself for exploitation, or a thousand other fables, the land of Evalm-Senaak quickly and suddenly became violent. Fields dried up as crops rotted, soil and earth became loose grit, and cities were blasted with constant gales. The livestock of the people of Evalm-Senaak died from dehydration as bandits stole what little of the remaining water they could. Millions died from the skyrocketing heat, and within a matter of ten years, the empire was no more, its people scattered, thirsty, and bent on survival rather than cooperation.

It is said that the magic wielded and bound during this era was second only to the great artifacts and spells of the Ancients (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/Battleoftheancients.htm) themselves.

In present-day Dontorr, most of the major artifacts and arcane "hotspots" that exist are products from the Age of Glory. Although countless centuries have passed sense Evalm-Senaak collapsed, there are still many questions left unanswered, the most important being, "Who caused the fall of the empire?" Sifting through thousands of myths and fables to find the truth may be even more difficult than it sounds, as written communication was not predominant during that era.[/spoiler]

[spoiler=The Age of Zantorus]
Zantorus, the ancient Wizard-King, appears in the earliest existing records of humankind. Near the end of the Buronian Era (more than 13,400 years ago), a powerful lich archmage seized control of the barren wastelands that the continent of Dontorr had become.
More information. (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/zantorus.htm)[/spoiler]

[spoiler=The Age of Solitude]
Coming soon.[/spoiler]

[spoiler=The Age of Redemption]
Coming soon.[/spoiler]

[spoiler=The Age of Villains]
The modern era. Coming soon.[/spoiler]

New 1301 update: Myzrannic Principality (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/myzrannicprincipality.htm)

GNOMISH HOMELAND. (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/allastrus.htm)
SOUTH VESTIN. (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/southvestin.htm)

Also, be sure to check out the new new direction (http://thecbg.org/e107_plugins/forum/forum_viewtopic.php?25746.last) for divinity in Red Valor.

Look for a completion of the initial phase Red Valor: Project 1301 within the next month or so-- only about six nations need to be written up. Then, it's editing time, to clarify some of the inconsistencies or confusing points that are in 1301 and the underlying previous work.

-ElDo

Hey guys! The RVCS needs your help!

I'm planning on creating a glossary of terms for the Red Valor website (located here (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor)), and I need the assistance of readers both old and new to compile a list of terms, places, people, and events that need defining. Any help is appreciated!

Incorran :)

Hey, this is sort of a multi-part announcement, so bear with me.

First, there might have been a few updates over time that I neglected to post here. Here's the current list (http://www.freewebs.com/red_valor/1301countries.htm) of countries, with hyperlinks to completed entries about them. I actually have ideas for the incomplete ones as well, I just need to find the time and motivation to write the entries.

Second, and more important, I've been running a (fairly successful) game in the 1301 world, so I'm learning what is and is not important, what works, and how the setting feels. To be brief, politics has become a huge, huge issue, and as such, I'll be working on completing the Glossary I conscripted a few folks around here to help soon-ish. No promises, though.

Third, I figured I'd throw in something actually relevant to the setting, to make up for all the empty promises about information and other things. It's a political map that outlines the various factions and alliances between nations, poising the Tare on the brink of continental war; the complicated system of alliances is akin to that of pre-World War 1 Europe.

(I've also thrown in the musings of gnome historian Glim Turen, who predicts three likely events of continental war.)

[spoiler=Glim's Notes]In the order of strength:
Artorian Pact- The most cohesive and powerful of alliances. Geographically and ideologically related, it has military, magical, diplomatic, and scouting might. Leaders are personal friends, though Elador is rumored to be ringleader.
Treaty of Baronport: Resources, similar ideologies, and powerful military presence. Secondary supporters unlikely to provide much military aid, but would side if pressed. Artoria's participation a wild card.
Western Alliance: Poorly coordinated and rife with in-fighting, nonetheless possesses the largest potential of resources if pooled. Constantly on the verge of collapse.
Torrath Alliance: Could control northern seaways and commerce, but is plagued with mismanagement and uncooperative leaders. Primarily a mutual agreement of non-aggression.

Scenario 1: Beastlands.
The Beastlands provokes Western Alliance, causing a war with either Sicloria or Vestin. After the alliance threatens to dissolve, a pact between S. Vestin and Pendorius aligns the Kingdom with both Baronport and Western. The Beastlands are besieged by enemies and ally with Eladrannia, causing Sicloria to fight a two-front war. Sicloria falls, Veovisinia and Symetrus provoke Myzrannic Principalities into conflict. The Beastlands faces heavy losses and collapses, while Enthoria becomes agitated at warfare taking place along its border. Elador provokes Enthoria, Allastrus and Symetrus eliminate Artorium, and war breaks out between the three factions. Estimated casualties: 6,000,000.

Scenario 2: Infiltration
Artorium or island nations infiltrate various levels of coastal governments, spurring discontent between Western Alliance and Baronport factions. War erupts between S. Vestin and Pendorius, soon escalating to include Sicloria, Azran, E.K.R., Artoria, Aarington, and Veovisinia. Allastrus and Symetrus conquer Artorium. The Beastlands become a battleground, besieged on all sides, and its government collapses. When Baronport appears dominant, the Torrath Alliance aligns with the Western Alliance, sending Baronport into a two-front war. When either appears dominant, Artorian Pact members invade, causing massive casualties and proving most dominant. Estimated casualties: 9,000,000.

Scenario 3: Ryozedri Defection
The Drakelands becomes an increasingly volatile threat, leading Tobias Karos to gain significant political power within Ryozedron. Ryozo is overthrown, and the new state allies with the Torrath Alliance. The remaining Artorian Pact members declare war with Torrath Alliance members, with Baronport allies choosing to side with Eladrannia. The Beastlands attempts to expand into Azrani space, leading Vestin to become paranoid and declare war, which it wins quickly and decisively. Disputes between Baronport and Vestin become exasperated after Vestin refuses to cede Azrani territory, leading to war between Baronport and Western Alliance. Eladrannia remains the last Artorian Pact nation as Ergoth and Myzra are routed, leading to a highly destructive civilian-targeted campaign in the north. Torrath suffers unbelievable losses, while Baronport and Western Alliance factions battle for nearly a decade. Elador is deposed, most nations become unstable, and barbarian tribes destroy the few remaining beacons of civilization. Estimated casualties: 25,000,000.[/spoiler]
(//../../e107_files/public/1195092028_2_FT270_nationsupload_copy_.jpg) (//../../e107_files/public/1195092028_2_FT270_nationsupload_copy.jpg)