- Invitation Status
- Posting Speed
- 1-3 posts per day
- One post per day
- 1-3 posts per week
- Online Availability
- Variable
- Writing Levels
- Adept
- Advanced
- Preferred Character Gender
- Male
- Genres
- Fantasy, Scifi, Romance, Yaoi, Furry
[BCOLOR=#000000]Welcome! I am known as the Arbiter, and this is my story. The Great War has destroyed a great deal, and sent many to the void. I have been sent by the Council of the Ancients to level the balance, and attempt to bring peace. The Council has granted me powers to do as I must, and I shall. As such, I have decided to change a few things, and we will correct the ills the war has laid upon all races. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]What part will you play? Who will you be? What house will you join and do honor to? Let's find out![/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Ilkarian Lore[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Great War[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Click here to get a copy of the official map.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]As is the case with most war, legend can become expanded until it is no longer believable or even logical. This devastating thirty year war began with a senseless drunken act by one lone dwarf, that escalated into so much more than anyone could have predicted or foretold. The legend became something much more than the mere misunderstanding that actually occurred but the true events are as follows.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Garrick Ericksson, as many of his race, was a talented stone mason. He had carved many stone walls, houses and even carved statues. He received a commission to make a statue of a man's wife and he was transporting the large piece of granite which would become the life-sized statue from The Dorn mountains to the plains of Moran where the family in question resided. He had met the family just before the noon hour and assured them work would begin on the morrow, explaining that he had to arrange accommodations and get settled that day.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]He set out therefore to find a good pint of ale and enjoy the rest of his day in his particular style. He happened upon a bar that, to his delight and joy, had imported dwarven ale. He drank and sang for quite a while, and then left the bar and made his way to what his drunken eyes and mind thought was the brothel. Instead, it was the local trading post and there were people of every race and tongue assembled to make purchases. He saw a woman in a beautiful flowing yellow gown, and whistled as he neared and gave her behind an affectionate tweaking. Sadly for Garrick, the woman in question was the wife of a well respected General of the Larmen, and the man was not amused and neither was his mortified wife.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]This simple drunken misunderstanding had every person within that trading post arguing, and then before long throwing punches, and before it ended the general's wife was dead. The lines had been drawn, elves and dwarves against the orcs and the humans. The Humans feeling the need to revenge the general's loss, and the Orcs joining simply because the one at fault had been a dwarf. The Elves siding with the Dwarves feeling the whole matter was completely accidental and not willing to see an entire race massacred over one drunken man's mistake.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]This grew into the most feverishly fought war the land had ever seen. Spanning all races and regions and lasting for thirty years. The brunt of the fighting took place at the foot of the Dorn mountains along a nine mile stretch of land that is now called the Field of Blood, where to this day nothing grows because it is so full of magic and the blood of the fallen. Most make a wide path around the area as a result.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Ancient Ones looked on for those thirty years and then they sent The Arbiter. They imbued him with power such as the lands had never seen before, and would likely never see again. The Commanding generals of each army were transported against their will to a secluded ridge on mount Dorn. There he gave them the grave news the Ancient ones had sent him to deliver, that they were in grave danger of completely eliminating their races by destroying the very lands they all needed to survive. This got their attention and the Arbiter was able to negotiate a cease fire agreement that every General signed. This has brought the new order, and new parliamentary body called The Hegemony, and the selection process for the Emperor of Ilkaria.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Hegemony[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]This governing body is composed of members sent by each race. Each race elects five Most Honorable Delegates, from among esteemed members of each race, depending on rules that each race sets up. These Delegates along with their families, form the Ancient and Noble Houses of the Hegemony. Each House nominates one of their Delegates to be Lord Delegate. These nominees are then moved to an antechamber to wait while the entire Hegemony votes whether to "retain" or "deny" each nominee for the position of Lord Delegate, which is the Legal head of the House, and thus, the highest ranking official for his or her people. Any members denied are then returned to the Delegate position, and the process is repeated, until a suitable candidate is found. The Arbiter then must vet each of the retained Delegates to determine whether the Ancients accept that person. Using a magical device similar to a crown, but having enormous magical properties, he sets the device upon the head of the Candidate. If the candidate is accepted, the clear jewel in the crown will glow brightly with a blue-tinted light. If the candidate is not accepted, the jewel will turn black until the crown is removed. The denied candidate is told that he is not accepted, and he returns to the Position of Delegate again, and the process begins again. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]A simpler process is used to determine the Emperor of the Land of Ilkaria. The Houses nominate one member (either delegate or non-delegate) to stand for election to the title of Emperor. A similar crown with three gems are used, and each nominee is tested in the same way. If all elected delegates are denied, the arbiter subjects every member of every house to the test. Anyone who is accepted at that point will be the Emperor. If no one is found among the houses, the Arbiter will begin a quest to find a worthy one to take the title of Emperor.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]In this way, Ilkaria will have the best people to run this land. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Races[/BCOLOR]
The Berkak
Of stone they were born, and are masters of stone and iron working. Often called Dwarves, this proud race are the second longest living race on the planet, short of the elven races, living up to 1000 years. They place honorable action and combat most highly, and are among the fiercely loyal to house, crown, and the Arbiter.
They are a physically small people, who favor enchanted swords, axes, and hammers to projectile weaponry. The name of the race is the same as the house, and means, "Arm of Stone".
The Ferregard
Once a race that conquered many lands, but stopped once they encountered the Berkak, The Ferregard inhabit the snowy mountains north of the Dwarven Dorn mountains. Often called "Orcs" by other races, The Ferregard are a strong military society, favoring projectile weapons over all else, the bigger, the better.
They are often seen in full military garb, and value honor and strength and honor in battle above all else. They also are very strict about bloodline. The people, land, and house all have the name "Ferregard", which means "house of iron".
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Valena[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Of all the sentient beings in Ilkaria, none have more ability in magic than the High Elves, which call themselves Ek Valena, or "The People". Represented in the Hegemony by the Ancient and Noble House of Vaelena, they were born of magic itself, being a creation of a bored Ancient, and they are first and foremost dedicated to magic. They aren't religious, seeing magic as a science in its own right, and have written scientific tomes to explain why and how it works. Part of an elf's training as he or she matures is how to utilize all aspects of magic, and how to identify races and individuals based on the "taste" of the magic surrounding them, as well as what is left after magic has been done. The only real way for an elf to die is for said elf to be killed. Death by old age simply isn't a factor.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]These beings possess the stereotypical white/blonde hair, usually long, angular but smooth features, fine lines, whipcord musculature, and often sharp and agile tongues, which are known to cause... problems. There are occasionally exceptions to this rule, though. In most situations, though, they temper that snarky nature, and opt for a formal way of speaking. Often, elves make excellent ambassadors, even between two races that aren't elven.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]They eschew racism and bigotry, and tend to have the most open-minded people. They prefer magic over technology, but are willing to enchant technology and imbue the tech with magical effects normally unobtainable. Often these enchanted items are sold for good profit to the elves.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Valena make their homes deep in the Forest of Ayela, within the trunks of massive trees magically grown into the shapes required to give all comforts of home. A bit decadent, the elves seem to use magic for most tasks, and it shows in the incredible variety of magical plants and animals that permeate the forest.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Jabari[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Jabari (whose house is called The Most Ancient and Noble House of the Jabari) are an elven race that have the innate ability to shift into an animal that matches their spirit-animal, which they find after long self-searching quests. They live in the tops of the great house trees of the forest, and make their "nests" there, as well as move through the tops of the trees to get places quickly.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Having a slightly superstitious nature, they typically avoid most large technology, simply because "It doesn't seem right". Small technology, however, isn't considered bad. Jabari are the unequivocal masters of the hunt, due to the shape-shifting ability. They are able to live with any type of elven race, and are sometimes found prowling around Drow cities without impedance.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]They are, despite a usually slight appearance, fierce fighters. Some Jabari, after incredible amounts of training are able to stop a shift just enough so that they create an anthropomorphic version of their animal form, called their "two-legs" form. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Humans[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Humans of Ilkaria are represented by the Ancient and Noble House of Laren, and are primarily found on the Plain of Moran. Though some humans have left their homelands in the west and joined themselves to the various other races, most of their race have remained in the plains and along the Yal Kunik oceanfront. They live in a series of interlocking cityscapes that are easily traversed by horseback, cycling, or on foot. The buildings are ornately detailed and this carries over to the interior as well. They take great pride in their achievements in this regard and everyone works together to ensure the cities remain vital and free of trash and vagrancy. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Priding themselves on being the most advanced technologically of all the races, they have a well trained armed force that makes use of zeppelins and zep-gliders. The glider airmen use rapid fire crossbows, and the foot armies use rifles with bayonets. They are bordered on three sides by other races and so have felt the need to have a well armed and trained army at the ready at all times. This force is called the Larmen and to be part of it is considered a high honor.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]They are also accepting magic into their culture in the way of purchased enchanted items or potions for healing. They have not embraced their own personal magical abilities, but they would be able to become adept if they were to study. Thus far, they have been content to purchase magic from the elves primarily, and see technology as the best path to their future successes. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Humans dwell in family groups and are within that group a tight knit unit. These units can often include extended family if the dwelling is large enough. They are however not as concerned about those outside that small unit, and have been known to cause the downfall of others to achieve personal goals. Greed is a vice universally attributed to Humans, though not all are so single minded on attaining wealth. They can be unscrupulous, but most common folks are working and building a family and are basically honest. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]There is no universally practiced religion anymore within the lands or the House of Laren, though there are pockets of people who do believe in the ancient gods and do them homage. The coming of technology and advancement took their need of the ancient's gifts from their minds and so they rely on that rather than on prayers and offerings. Those who do still believe see a great downfall and danger to their culture in this 'falling away' and are very opinionated and vocal in their opinions of the present course of their society.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Drow[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Drow are a tribe of elves that lives primarily underground, beneath the Forest of Ayela. They are represented by the House of Aedairin which being interpreted is "Singers of the Dark Waters". They dwell in large underground cities that are literally carved into the rock formations beneath the surface. These carved homes are very intricately made and form a vast maze of interlocking hamlets and groups, that consist of family groups and extended family. They are usually surrounding an underground lake since they have magical affinity to water, and are often highly sought in other states to create running water indoors, especially by Humans. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Because they spend the vast majority of their time underground, they have excellent night vision and at times their eyes even have the red sheen similar to a cat in the dark. Their skin tends to be dark but not black as is their hair. They are graceful and strong for their size from the ward work of carving into the solid rock to forge their homes. They have over the years developed retractable claws that are strong enough to cut into stone and carve decorative designs into it as well. In this way their homes are unique and represent their individuality. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The do have some technology taken from the Humans which provides a few amenities. Like the other elvin races, they prefer to use magic to achieve their goals, and advance their race and society. They are mostly an organic peoples though, preferring to live as one with their surroundings.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Drow still believe in the ancients and give offerings. They also have a form of worship involving dancing in a shallow pool of water as they chant a beautiful and hypnotic song of praise and delight in the ancients. This is a highly private personal act that most do not even share with their family, as it is considered a holy sacrament and usually done in a time of great blessing, such as the birth of a child or grandchild, or great need, such as sickness or injury. They also have a shared dance that is performed in the time of death of a member of the family. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Filling out your character sheet: Things to remember[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Land of Ilkaria is large, but very isolated, because as far as any of its inhabitants are concerned, there are no other lands on their planet. All that can be seen from any coast is water. So, the people that live on this continent are, for better or worse dependent upon each other for survival, despite the fact that the Great War and the situation that led to it, are the cause of great social upheaval, as well as a great deal of racial and political tension.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The following races are herein listed and described.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Note on Inter-house adoption: If your character is of one race and is adopted by another, please follow this rule: Orcs adopt only humans, but give no voting rights to humans. Humans adopt elves, and dwarves, but not orcs, reasons unknown. Dwarves adopt humans and elves, but not orcs, because of past wars. Elves will adopt anyone, if they feel the need to do so. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Laren:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] This is your stereotypical human, with a life span of about 80 standard years. A Laren (please use the word Laren in both singular and plural senses) is marked by having the following traits: A love for technology, a tendency toward greed, strength of character, complex understanding of honor, loyalty to family bonds, fear of what is different. The human house is known as Laren, which means "The Landsmiths".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Berkak:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] The Dwarvish people are among the longest living beings on the planet. They live close to 1000 standard years. They are the People of the Stone, and believe that they were created from the stone. They are masters of stone and metal, and create some of the most beautiful buildings in the world. In fact, the Hegemony Assembly Hall and the Royal Palace are both built by the Dwarves. They call themselves the Berkak, but most do not recognize that name, unless they are of the race, or adopted by that race. A Berkak will stand only as high as the average human's hips. The males are usually bearded, and aren't considered adults until their two-hundredth birthday. The Berkak use their race name as their house name, and it means "Arm of Stone".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Ferregard: [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000]Orcs are an honor-bound society that see war and violence as a benefit to their society. Eschewing magic, for the most part, they make the most powerful war machines on the planet, but hate flying and the machines that do so. They are the only race that is dependent upon bloodlines in their race, meaning that only an orc can vote in the Ferregardian House. They do adopt from among the humans, but those so adopted are known as Ferren. Ferren are not slaves, and ARE often family. They simply do not have a say in the politics of Ferregard. The Ferregard usually stand around seven feet tall, and weigh three hundred or so pounds. You will never see a fat orc. The house and Territory are called Ferregard, which means "House of Iron".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Elves[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The three races of elves are marked by the fact that despite their differences, they are closely (and fiercely) allied with each other. All Elven races come from (and most live IN) the Forest of Ayela, in the Southern part of the continent. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Valena:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] This race is your stereotypical High Elf. This race is marked by "The Science of Magic", and they believe that if you can do it with magic, you should. They are tall, as a rule, and usually possess aquiline features, with fine, but full white hair. There has rarely been a fat Valena. They tend toward sarcasm and wordplay, but are usually respectful, if the same courtesy is extended to them. They aren't particularly religious or superstitious, but some pockets of Worship of the Ancients do exist. The Valena house is known as Vaelena, meaning, "The Assembled People".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Jabari: [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000]This race of elves is marked by an ability to shift between their base form (that of what might be called a "Wood Elf", having fair features, with dark hair) to an animal that is the same as their spirit animal, which must be found through meditation and Soul-Questing, which must be taught from a very young age. They aren't as tall as the Valena, but are just as Aquiline. Some do get slightly overweight. They are known as Masters of the Hunt, much the the consternation of the Ferregard. The Royal House is known as Jabari, which means "Courage".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Aedairin:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] Often called Drow or Dark Elves by the human bards and writers, the Aedairin are not in any way evil, despite the connotations of the word "dark". They are marked by a deep brown color, angular features, black, straight hair, and cat-like, red eyes that see easily in the dark. They are not as tall as the Valena, but are about the height of humans. There are no fat Aedairin. They live underground, and are masters of the working of water. They have retractable claws that can carve stone without use of tools, and are often fierce in battle. They build magnificent underground cities, lit with magic. Very spiritual beings, they are often seen singing and dancing, but they hide their true ritual within their homes and holy places. They use their race name as their house name, and it means "Singers of the Dark Waters"[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]---[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Rules:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] Select your race. You must choose from the six races listed above. You will be issued a rank, and you must fight for the votes of your house to make your way to the highest positions of power in the Empire. After choosing your race, be aware that Dwarves use the naming conventions that one might find in the Nordic countries of our own world. For instance, a male dwarf named Garreck who had a father named Erik would be called Garreck Eriksson. Similarly, a female dwarf named Isold whose mother was called Hilde would have the name of Isold Hildesdottir. All other races are fairly similar to the humans, in that a family name is used for every member. So, you must choose a name that meets that criteria.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Next, choose weapons. If you use projectile weaponry, choose whether to use enchanted weapons, or standard. No orc would use enchanted weaponry. Humans can use either type, but prefer enchanted, when they can afford it. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Next, choose powers. If you are an orc, you will not use magic. If you are an Elf, you will prefer magic and enchanted items to projectile weapons. You may also use swords. Be sensible. Choose a power, but don't try to be overpowered.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Next, decide on your character's history and temperament.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Then, fill out the following character sheet, being descriptive where necessary. You may create up to two characters. You may not select the Arbiter. That character is reserved.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Name: (What is your character name?)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Race: (Use the names provided: Loran, Aedairin, Valena, Ferregard, Jabari, and Berkak)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Gender: (Self explanatory, genderless or non-binary characters welcome)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Age: (Self-explanatory)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Powers: (If your character uses magic, select a category, such as mind-magic, battle-magic, magi-crafting)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character's Weapon Loadout: (Following the rules laid out previously, select a weapon that matches what your race prefers)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Temperament: (Be descriptive. Minimum 2 paragraphs)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character History: (Be descriptive. Minimum 2 paragraphs)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Thank you for your interest in The Houses of Ilkaria. We hope you will enjoy this.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Here's the link for the Ongoing RP![/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]What part will you play? Who will you be? What house will you join and do honor to? Let's find out![/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Ilkarian Lore[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Great War[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Click here to get a copy of the official map.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]As is the case with most war, legend can become expanded until it is no longer believable or even logical. This devastating thirty year war began with a senseless drunken act by one lone dwarf, that escalated into so much more than anyone could have predicted or foretold. The legend became something much more than the mere misunderstanding that actually occurred but the true events are as follows.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Garrick Ericksson, as many of his race, was a talented stone mason. He had carved many stone walls, houses and even carved statues. He received a commission to make a statue of a man's wife and he was transporting the large piece of granite which would become the life-sized statue from The Dorn mountains to the plains of Moran where the family in question resided. He had met the family just before the noon hour and assured them work would begin on the morrow, explaining that he had to arrange accommodations and get settled that day.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]He set out therefore to find a good pint of ale and enjoy the rest of his day in his particular style. He happened upon a bar that, to his delight and joy, had imported dwarven ale. He drank and sang for quite a while, and then left the bar and made his way to what his drunken eyes and mind thought was the brothel. Instead, it was the local trading post and there were people of every race and tongue assembled to make purchases. He saw a woman in a beautiful flowing yellow gown, and whistled as he neared and gave her behind an affectionate tweaking. Sadly for Garrick, the woman in question was the wife of a well respected General of the Larmen, and the man was not amused and neither was his mortified wife.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]This simple drunken misunderstanding had every person within that trading post arguing, and then before long throwing punches, and before it ended the general's wife was dead. The lines had been drawn, elves and dwarves against the orcs and the humans. The Humans feeling the need to revenge the general's loss, and the Orcs joining simply because the one at fault had been a dwarf. The Elves siding with the Dwarves feeling the whole matter was completely accidental and not willing to see an entire race massacred over one drunken man's mistake.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]This grew into the most feverishly fought war the land had ever seen. Spanning all races and regions and lasting for thirty years. The brunt of the fighting took place at the foot of the Dorn mountains along a nine mile stretch of land that is now called the Field of Blood, where to this day nothing grows because it is so full of magic and the blood of the fallen. Most make a wide path around the area as a result.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Ancient Ones looked on for those thirty years and then they sent The Arbiter. They imbued him with power such as the lands had never seen before, and would likely never see again. The Commanding generals of each army were transported against their will to a secluded ridge on mount Dorn. There he gave them the grave news the Ancient ones had sent him to deliver, that they were in grave danger of completely eliminating their races by destroying the very lands they all needed to survive. This got their attention and the Arbiter was able to negotiate a cease fire agreement that every General signed. This has brought the new order, and new parliamentary body called The Hegemony, and the selection process for the Emperor of Ilkaria.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Hegemony[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]This governing body is composed of members sent by each race. Each race elects five Most Honorable Delegates, from among esteemed members of each race, depending on rules that each race sets up. These Delegates along with their families, form the Ancient and Noble Houses of the Hegemony. Each House nominates one of their Delegates to be Lord Delegate. These nominees are then moved to an antechamber to wait while the entire Hegemony votes whether to "retain" or "deny" each nominee for the position of Lord Delegate, which is the Legal head of the House, and thus, the highest ranking official for his or her people. Any members denied are then returned to the Delegate position, and the process is repeated, until a suitable candidate is found. The Arbiter then must vet each of the retained Delegates to determine whether the Ancients accept that person. Using a magical device similar to a crown, but having enormous magical properties, he sets the device upon the head of the Candidate. If the candidate is accepted, the clear jewel in the crown will glow brightly with a blue-tinted light. If the candidate is not accepted, the jewel will turn black until the crown is removed. The denied candidate is told that he is not accepted, and he returns to the Position of Delegate again, and the process begins again. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]A simpler process is used to determine the Emperor of the Land of Ilkaria. The Houses nominate one member (either delegate or non-delegate) to stand for election to the title of Emperor. A similar crown with three gems are used, and each nominee is tested in the same way. If all elected delegates are denied, the arbiter subjects every member of every house to the test. Anyone who is accepted at that point will be the Emperor. If no one is found among the houses, the Arbiter will begin a quest to find a worthy one to take the title of Emperor.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]In this way, Ilkaria will have the best people to run this land. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Races[/BCOLOR]
The Berkak
Of stone they were born, and are masters of stone and iron working. Often called Dwarves, this proud race are the second longest living race on the planet, short of the elven races, living up to 1000 years. They place honorable action and combat most highly, and are among the fiercely loyal to house, crown, and the Arbiter.
They are a physically small people, who favor enchanted swords, axes, and hammers to projectile weaponry. The name of the race is the same as the house, and means, "Arm of Stone".
The Ferregard
Once a race that conquered many lands, but stopped once they encountered the Berkak, The Ferregard inhabit the snowy mountains north of the Dwarven Dorn mountains. Often called "Orcs" by other races, The Ferregard are a strong military society, favoring projectile weapons over all else, the bigger, the better.
They are often seen in full military garb, and value honor and strength and honor in battle above all else. They also are very strict about bloodline. The people, land, and house all have the name "Ferregard", which means "house of iron".
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Valena[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Of all the sentient beings in Ilkaria, none have more ability in magic than the High Elves, which call themselves Ek Valena, or "The People". Represented in the Hegemony by the Ancient and Noble House of Vaelena, they were born of magic itself, being a creation of a bored Ancient, and they are first and foremost dedicated to magic. They aren't religious, seeing magic as a science in its own right, and have written scientific tomes to explain why and how it works. Part of an elf's training as he or she matures is how to utilize all aspects of magic, and how to identify races and individuals based on the "taste" of the magic surrounding them, as well as what is left after magic has been done. The only real way for an elf to die is for said elf to be killed. Death by old age simply isn't a factor.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]These beings possess the stereotypical white/blonde hair, usually long, angular but smooth features, fine lines, whipcord musculature, and often sharp and agile tongues, which are known to cause... problems. There are occasionally exceptions to this rule, though. In most situations, though, they temper that snarky nature, and opt for a formal way of speaking. Often, elves make excellent ambassadors, even between two races that aren't elven.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]They eschew racism and bigotry, and tend to have the most open-minded people. They prefer magic over technology, but are willing to enchant technology and imbue the tech with magical effects normally unobtainable. Often these enchanted items are sold for good profit to the elves.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Valena make their homes deep in the Forest of Ayela, within the trunks of massive trees magically grown into the shapes required to give all comforts of home. A bit decadent, the elves seem to use magic for most tasks, and it shows in the incredible variety of magical plants and animals that permeate the forest.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Jabari[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Jabari (whose house is called The Most Ancient and Noble House of the Jabari) are an elven race that have the innate ability to shift into an animal that matches their spirit-animal, which they find after long self-searching quests. They live in the tops of the great house trees of the forest, and make their "nests" there, as well as move through the tops of the trees to get places quickly.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Having a slightly superstitious nature, they typically avoid most large technology, simply because "It doesn't seem right". Small technology, however, isn't considered bad. Jabari are the unequivocal masters of the hunt, due to the shape-shifting ability. They are able to live with any type of elven race, and are sometimes found prowling around Drow cities without impedance.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]They are, despite a usually slight appearance, fierce fighters. Some Jabari, after incredible amounts of training are able to stop a shift just enough so that they create an anthropomorphic version of their animal form, called their "two-legs" form. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Humans[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Humans of Ilkaria are represented by the Ancient and Noble House of Laren, and are primarily found on the Plain of Moran. Though some humans have left their homelands in the west and joined themselves to the various other races, most of their race have remained in the plains and along the Yal Kunik oceanfront. They live in a series of interlocking cityscapes that are easily traversed by horseback, cycling, or on foot. The buildings are ornately detailed and this carries over to the interior as well. They take great pride in their achievements in this regard and everyone works together to ensure the cities remain vital and free of trash and vagrancy. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Priding themselves on being the most advanced technologically of all the races, they have a well trained armed force that makes use of zeppelins and zep-gliders. The glider airmen use rapid fire crossbows, and the foot armies use rifles with bayonets. They are bordered on three sides by other races and so have felt the need to have a well armed and trained army at the ready at all times. This force is called the Larmen and to be part of it is considered a high honor.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]They are also accepting magic into their culture in the way of purchased enchanted items or potions for healing. They have not embraced their own personal magical abilities, but they would be able to become adept if they were to study. Thus far, they have been content to purchase magic from the elves primarily, and see technology as the best path to their future successes. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Humans dwell in family groups and are within that group a tight knit unit. These units can often include extended family if the dwelling is large enough. They are however not as concerned about those outside that small unit, and have been known to cause the downfall of others to achieve personal goals. Greed is a vice universally attributed to Humans, though not all are so single minded on attaining wealth. They can be unscrupulous, but most common folks are working and building a family and are basically honest. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]There is no universally practiced religion anymore within the lands or the House of Laren, though there are pockets of people who do believe in the ancient gods and do them homage. The coming of technology and advancement took their need of the ancient's gifts from their minds and so they rely on that rather than on prayers and offerings. Those who do still believe see a great downfall and danger to their culture in this 'falling away' and are very opinionated and vocal in their opinions of the present course of their society.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Drow[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Drow are a tribe of elves that lives primarily underground, beneath the Forest of Ayela. They are represented by the House of Aedairin which being interpreted is "Singers of the Dark Waters". They dwell in large underground cities that are literally carved into the rock formations beneath the surface. These carved homes are very intricately made and form a vast maze of interlocking hamlets and groups, that consist of family groups and extended family. They are usually surrounding an underground lake since they have magical affinity to water, and are often highly sought in other states to create running water indoors, especially by Humans. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Because they spend the vast majority of their time underground, they have excellent night vision and at times their eyes even have the red sheen similar to a cat in the dark. Their skin tends to be dark but not black as is their hair. They are graceful and strong for their size from the ward work of carving into the solid rock to forge their homes. They have over the years developed retractable claws that are strong enough to cut into stone and carve decorative designs into it as well. In this way their homes are unique and represent their individuality. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The do have some technology taken from the Humans which provides a few amenities. Like the other elvin races, they prefer to use magic to achieve their goals, and advance their race and society. They are mostly an organic peoples though, preferring to live as one with their surroundings.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Drow still believe in the ancients and give offerings. They also have a form of worship involving dancing in a shallow pool of water as they chant a beautiful and hypnotic song of praise and delight in the ancients. This is a highly private personal act that most do not even share with their family, as it is considered a holy sacrament and usually done in a time of great blessing, such as the birth of a child or grandchild, or great need, such as sickness or injury. They also have a shared dance that is performed in the time of death of a member of the family. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Filling out your character sheet: Things to remember[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Land of Ilkaria is large, but very isolated, because as far as any of its inhabitants are concerned, there are no other lands on their planet. All that can be seen from any coast is water. So, the people that live on this continent are, for better or worse dependent upon each other for survival, despite the fact that the Great War and the situation that led to it, are the cause of great social upheaval, as well as a great deal of racial and political tension.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The following races are herein listed and described.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Note on Inter-house adoption: If your character is of one race and is adopted by another, please follow this rule: Orcs adopt only humans, but give no voting rights to humans. Humans adopt elves, and dwarves, but not orcs, reasons unknown. Dwarves adopt humans and elves, but not orcs, because of past wars. Elves will adopt anyone, if they feel the need to do so. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Laren:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] This is your stereotypical human, with a life span of about 80 standard years. A Laren (please use the word Laren in both singular and plural senses) is marked by having the following traits: A love for technology, a tendency toward greed, strength of character, complex understanding of honor, loyalty to family bonds, fear of what is different. The human house is known as Laren, which means "The Landsmiths".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Berkak:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] The Dwarvish people are among the longest living beings on the planet. They live close to 1000 standard years. They are the People of the Stone, and believe that they were created from the stone. They are masters of stone and metal, and create some of the most beautiful buildings in the world. In fact, the Hegemony Assembly Hall and the Royal Palace are both built by the Dwarves. They call themselves the Berkak, but most do not recognize that name, unless they are of the race, or adopted by that race. A Berkak will stand only as high as the average human's hips. The males are usually bearded, and aren't considered adults until their two-hundredth birthday. The Berkak use their race name as their house name, and it means "Arm of Stone".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Ferregard: [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000]Orcs are an honor-bound society that see war and violence as a benefit to their society. Eschewing magic, for the most part, they make the most powerful war machines on the planet, but hate flying and the machines that do so. They are the only race that is dependent upon bloodlines in their race, meaning that only an orc can vote in the Ferregardian House. They do adopt from among the humans, but those so adopted are known as Ferren. Ferren are not slaves, and ARE often family. They simply do not have a say in the politics of Ferregard. The Ferregard usually stand around seven feet tall, and weigh three hundred or so pounds. You will never see a fat orc. The house and Territory are called Ferregard, which means "House of Iron".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Elves[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The three races of elves are marked by the fact that despite their differences, they are closely (and fiercely) allied with each other. All Elven races come from (and most live IN) the Forest of Ayela, in the Southern part of the continent. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Valena:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] This race is your stereotypical High Elf. This race is marked by "The Science of Magic", and they believe that if you can do it with magic, you should. They are tall, as a rule, and usually possess aquiline features, with fine, but full white hair. There has rarely been a fat Valena. They tend toward sarcasm and wordplay, but are usually respectful, if the same courtesy is extended to them. They aren't particularly religious or superstitious, but some pockets of Worship of the Ancients do exist. The Valena house is known as Vaelena, meaning, "The Assembled People".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Jabari: [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000]This race of elves is marked by an ability to shift between their base form (that of what might be called a "Wood Elf", having fair features, with dark hair) to an animal that is the same as their spirit animal, which must be found through meditation and Soul-Questing, which must be taught from a very young age. They aren't as tall as the Valena, but are just as Aquiline. Some do get slightly overweight. They are known as Masters of the Hunt, much the the consternation of the Ferregard. The Royal House is known as Jabari, which means "Courage".[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]The Aedairin:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] Often called Drow or Dark Elves by the human bards and writers, the Aedairin are not in any way evil, despite the connotations of the word "dark". They are marked by a deep brown color, angular features, black, straight hair, and cat-like, red eyes that see easily in the dark. They are not as tall as the Valena, but are about the height of humans. There are no fat Aedairin. They live underground, and are masters of the working of water. They have retractable claws that can carve stone without use of tools, and are often fierce in battle. They build magnificent underground cities, lit with magic. Very spiritual beings, they are often seen singing and dancing, but they hide their true ritual within their homes and holy places. They use their race name as their house name, and it means "Singers of the Dark Waters"[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]---[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Rules:[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=#000000] Select your race. You must choose from the six races listed above. You will be issued a rank, and you must fight for the votes of your house to make your way to the highest positions of power in the Empire. After choosing your race, be aware that Dwarves use the naming conventions that one might find in the Nordic countries of our own world. For instance, a male dwarf named Garreck who had a father named Erik would be called Garreck Eriksson. Similarly, a female dwarf named Isold whose mother was called Hilde would have the name of Isold Hildesdottir. All other races are fairly similar to the humans, in that a family name is used for every member. So, you must choose a name that meets that criteria.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Next, choose weapons. If you use projectile weaponry, choose whether to use enchanted weapons, or standard. No orc would use enchanted weaponry. Humans can use either type, but prefer enchanted, when they can afford it. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Next, choose powers. If you are an orc, you will not use magic. If you are an Elf, you will prefer magic and enchanted items to projectile weapons. You may also use swords. Be sensible. Choose a power, but don't try to be overpowered.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Next, decide on your character's history and temperament.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Then, fill out the following character sheet, being descriptive where necessary. You may create up to two characters. You may not select the Arbiter. That character is reserved.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Name: (What is your character name?)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Race: (Use the names provided: Loran, Aedairin, Valena, Ferregard, Jabari, and Berkak)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Gender: (Self explanatory, genderless or non-binary characters welcome)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Age: (Self-explanatory)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Powers: (If your character uses magic, select a category, such as mind-magic, battle-magic, magi-crafting)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character's Weapon Loadout: (Following the rules laid out previously, select a weapon that matches what your race prefers)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character Temperament: (Be descriptive. Minimum 2 paragraphs)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Character History: (Be descriptive. Minimum 2 paragraphs)[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Thank you for your interest in The Houses of Ilkaria. We hope you will enjoy this.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=#000000]Here's the link for the Ongoing RP![/BCOLOR]
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Magana Dreambreaker
