Nation Building BeckonCall's Fantasy Nation-building RPG thread

Manpower

Manpower: 310
Population: 113 (112 with Prince)

Cave Cyclops-1

Young High Elf Archer Militia-40

Skilled High Elf Spearman Militia- 21 total.
(- 2 casualties in battle, -2 in mud witch sabotage)

Elite Sword Masters - 25

Noble Specialist – 10

Countrymen - 15 (4 point units)

Influence/Wealth/Resources

Influence =29
Wealth = 15

quartz
coal
Shark
God rot
Divine distillation
Subterranean Pike fish
Ceramic heaters
Exotic tropical melon
Highborn Forged weapons

(more will add)

History and Background

History and Background of Eastern High Elves


These High elves (Cala'quessir) are from the East their Kingdom called “Valistar Othar Rhun” (“Warrior Mages of the East”). They are sea faring and live by great cliffs which loom large on one side creating a barrier (South East), a valley leads from cliffs to the North West, there are great forests to the North, plains to the West, and mountains to the South West. On their borders and partially on their territory (in less penetrable areas) there are other Elven races. These elves live well and in peace. On the fringes of the territory there is a variety of races. Among the princes of the High Elves, there is a family faction that is known to marry and breed outside of their race and a community of Half elves. On the perimeters of their lands there are Wood Elves in the Forests, wild elves in the deepest of forest, Grey Elves wander in the Mountains, Snow Elves in the Highest peaks, Aquatic elves off of the shore on Islands, Winged Elves in the Canyons, a smattering of magical valley elves in the valleys and the dreaded enemy the Dark Elves further to the South West Mountain chain. The realm of the Eastern High elves extends beyond the "Oira Tum" (“Eternal valley") into a chain of valleys, plains, forests, and mountains. The Eternal valley of the Eastern High Valley lords is very secretive. It is said that not many people know or have seen the actual stronghold since these secrets are guarded by both magic and by decoy strongholds.

In the primary valley (the eternal valley), there lies the main Noble stronghold, the strong hold, the great home of the Eastern High Elf King and Queen, their princes, princesses and family rule over a chain of valleys and canyons leading of from the Cliffs. The valley itself is lush and a cultivated paradise. There exist a special micro climate within this valley. It is said that it is always spring there. Lower in the valley it gets warmer and it is always summer. Further up the valley it is like Fall, and past the valley high, high up towards the peaks there is eternal winter.

The sheer, rocky cliffs to the South East that border the ocean forms a defense from Seaward invasion. The High Elves once employed dwarves to make a well defended and camouflaged port (the Dwarves were rewarded handsomely) and subsequently hired Gnomes to make an elaborate system of traps to protect it. It is easy to get lost in the passages from the port and even easier to find peril in the various traps and moveable walls. There is also magic at work, Elven magic designed to make it impossible or near impossible for any invaders to penetrate the elaborate defenses. Within these cliffs, and stone, there are caverns dug out that one can see the sky. In these caverns there are gardens, farms, springs of water, stores of food which were built as a fallback point in case the valley itself is overrun. From the main port there is another elaborate pass to reach a valley. This pass (as all passes into the valley) are highly defended, secretive and private. From the valley there is an Imperial high way used to ship Elven goods and Empire Goods in.

It is believed that the High Elves could wait out a siege even if it took centuries. This option was considered at the height of the Muurdan invasion. The “compromise” or “agreement” was reached with the Muurdan and this extreme plan never was needed. The Eastern High elves are a proud group of people whom have learned to co-exist and thrive with the Muurdan. This cooperation is not based on equal footing, but on necessity.

The Eastern High Elves like many of the other Non-human, and Human races resisted the Muurdan onslaught and endured great casualties. The High Elves inflicted great casualties, but a thousand lives of a Muurdan is worth one Elven life in the eyes of the Elves.

The Eastern High Elf kingdom (once independent before Muurdan invasion) encompasses much of this region and once had subjects of multiple Elven races. These Elven races have always had a degree of sovereignty, still do and defer to the High Elves who are of the Noble race of Elves. Internal matters are still mostly handled within the respective Elven communities, and when needed the High Elves are involved, although High Elves are known to be haughty and this can become tiresome. The High Elves try not to involve the Muurdan in Internal matters. The High Elves intercede on behalf of their Elven brethren on occasion acting as intermediaries between the Muurdan, other Elf races and humans in general. Eastern High Elves for the most part get along with other races (with the exception of the Dark Elves), although each “race” has it's particularities and the High Elves are known for their arrogance and superior attitudes.

The Eastern High Elves like the other High elves prize their ability for craftsmanship, magic and war. Their crafts are exported across the kingdom

The more common, merchant classes of the High Elves (all High Elves are considered to be of noble blood) are looked down upon by some of the “elite” noble high elves and yet their penchant for trade and contact to the rest of the Empire is well regarded by many. Much of the trade goods from this region that the kingdom enjoys come from them. They are known as the Darinarinyl. These relatives are valuable to the well being of the kingdom. Some of them can nearly pass as human since they are intermarry. There is a great city of High Elves, elves, and Half-Elves (and to a lesser degree of several select races) in these parts that the Eastern High Elves rule over. This city is divided in four parts. There is the noble sanctuary in East, the meetings of the mind in the North, the Citadel of the West, and the enchanted gardens of the South. These 4 areas circle an area that makes up the nucleus of the city called the common area also known as the "Beleg Sangana Yamen'" (“the Grand gathering place"). There is hub of trade of the kingdom and of the city. The city is described by some as one the most beautiful of the Muurdan Empire. It is made of a rare and beautiful stone called Carbonado (aka “black diamond). The walls, the buildings, the citadel, the palaces, the city itself is carved from this extremely hard, and luminescent stone. It took millenia of magic, employed dwarves, stone golems and gnomes to carve the city. The material itself is not considered valuable. It is too hard to work with by mortals and not very beautiful as a gem. The walls, the buildings are considered impregnable. The city itself is constantly being expanded upon but very slowly (since High Elves are immortal). There are lesser structures in the more common parts of the city that are allowed to be made of inferior materials. They are also beautifully crafted (as there is a very strict building code), it was considered a compromise to allo not having a city purely of Carbonardo. The lesser structures are allowable only in certain areas and are not generally not lived in by the Noble High Elves themselves, but are for lesser races with some exceptions. The other materials are also often splendid and high quality, but much easier to work with.

Science is stressed highly in the city and centers of learning exist in many of the very tall spires. There are walls, gates to divide the various quarters and the quarters are separated from, and higher elevation for the Higher born from common areas. The city was designed as a fortress, but does not appear as such. The Muurdan learned the hard way when they cut their teethes on it. No one knows how long the city was under siege for and how many died attacking and defending. The costs on both sided were costly and the end result was the Eastern High Elves succumbing to Muurdan rule. The city itself guards the way to the pass to the Eternal valley.

The city shimmers. The tales of it’s beauty are written about in many books of lore. The Nobility and the Clerics (whom are themselves nobles) reside in the Noble Sanctuary. The artist, academics, scientist reside in the meetings of the minds. The war lords, the generals, the most elite of troops, the training barracks reside in the Citadel and the sorcerers, farmers, lovers of nature reside in the enchanted gardens of the south. There are private and public sections of all areas of the cities as long as one is High Elven. The sections themselves hold many mysteries and layers. There are magical doors, illusions, passages both hidden and secret throughout the city. It is said that one can live ten thousand years in the Eternal city of the East (Elvish name is… ) and never truly know it.
Some of the secrets have been lost. Many are known by a few. There is a flow and harmony throughout the city that is indescribable. One can spend hours just describing the gardens. The flowers, the trees, the trails, and enchanted bridges over streams. The city has an underground water system. Much of it is natural, and much of it is carved into the city. There are also food gardens in every abode and very large ones throughout the city to make the city self sustaining.In the common area (the grand gathering place), there are structures built in many styles for different races. There is a strict vetting process to allow anyone into the city. The common area is not easily accessible or escapable. It is not quite in the center, since it is surrounded by walls. These concentric walls are also magnificent murals depicting the history of the High Elves and other races. They are very, very tall. They are designed to be unscalable. The common area is where the trade occurs, where diplomats come to visit

Here there is a limited and select group of other races that are allowed to visit and dwell. One must be rich and/or have influence to visit and live. The hospitality of the Eastern High Elves is world renowned and uncharacteristic of many other High elves. The common area is designed to provide great beauty and comfort to those whom visit and live there. The foods, the drink are of the highest quality. It is viewed as privilege for those who visit and the very special few who live in this area to be able to. Some of the friendlier, hipper, modern, progressive High Elves reside there, as do the Merchant class. Dwarves, Hobbits, Humans, Wood Elves,, All kind of elves, gnomes, and other friendly races are allowed to live in the nicer mixed parts (if they are of a certain class. i.e very wealthy). There are sections that are still exclusive but more common people live. These are the craftsman, the young and unskilled, and the servants of the others. Even in these neighborhoods the quality of life is very high. There are NO poor. This would not be tolerated. Everyone in the city has basic rights and privileges of housing, food, health care and education. All of which are of high quality. There are naturally degrees of quality, but even the lowest quality food, housing, medical care and education rivals or his higher than what is the norm in the rest of the empire. One will not see a beggar, a homeless person, a sick person in the city and crime is not tolerated. However, it should be added that rehabilitation of criminals and of those who abuse vice are valued. Everyone will get just so many opportunities, but if they are unable to comply they are either, executed, imprisoned, exiled or punished. These are extreme examples as rehabilitation is emphasized. Crime among High elves themselves is very rare almost unheard of.

Knowledge and beauty are perhaps the two most important values stressed among the High Elves. Comfort and luxury are very important. Every High Elf feels they are of noble birth, even the commoner (which is an oxymoron since there is no such thing when speaking of High Born Elves). That is because compared to other Elven races this true. Among the High Elves themselves there are noble families, prestigious names and more prestigious names. A High Elf can raise himself to a much higher level than his born social class through attaining great knowledge, being a talented mage, an incredible artisan or by demonstrating incredible military acumen. Some raise themselves through acquiring great wealth, but since High Elves already possess much wealth, they do not value this as much as the other races. It’s much more impressive to say someone is smart than rich.

The lands of the Eastern High Elves are lush. They are a combination of wild woods and manicured fields. The Muurdan roads and highways cuts through them. Through great negotiation and treatise, the Highways bypass certain ancient trees. One faction of Sylvan elves (the cousins of the High Elves) are not tolerant of destroying such ancient trees, and the High Elves throughout it's history acted as a mediator between the Muurdan and the Sylvan Elves. Much has been said (and unsaid) about the relationship between the Sylvan wood elves and the High Elves. Clearly, the High Elves are superior. This goes without saying. One can see this in many aspects of life. However, Sylvan Elves consider themselves to be the purer of the two groups. High Elves are of noble birth and descendent of great noble lines. The High Elves had left the forests millennia before and created for themselves fantastic cities. These cities are looked at as un-Elf like by the Sylvan elves and for High Elves the forests are now the domain of squirrels and chipmunks not immortal beings.

That said, High Elves love the forest and feel at peace there. High Elves love and appreciate nature. For them they are happy to visit the forest, perhaps for a camping trip, a hike, a quest, to gather herbs and plants, to commune with nature, but do not see themselves living like woodpeckers and monkeys in a tree.

The High elves of the east love animals. Most High elves do, but for the Eastern High Elves, the taming and befriending of animals is of much importance. It is not rare to see Griffins, eagles, horses, lions being ridden in the city. Clearly, horses are more common than lions. The more exotic and extraordinary animals are ridden by the elite soldiers and Highest nobles. Once High Elves rode dragons, and one can still see High Elves wearing dragon armor. There are rumors that some dragon riders still exist and that only the highest echelons of the royal family still ride dragons, but this has not been witnessed in some time. The Muurdan have forbade Dragon riding The communing with animals and nature between High Elves and the rest of the animal kingdom is of much importance. High Elves revere all non-sentient living things as part of the great fabric. They respect them. High Elves are for the most part vegetarian, and more often than not vegan. They exist on plant life, but occasionally are known to eat different kinds of meat both domestic and hunted. There are some High Elves who partake in meat and dairy, however the majority eat vegetarian/and vegan. This is regional and Nobles prefer not to eat meat. There are some rare exceptions where this is cultural acceptable like for survival and some ancient traditions. When a High Elf does eat a animal, it is done in a very ceremonial and reverent manner. The animal is thanked profusely. The only “cheese” high elves partake in typically is goat, but some High Elves eat cow’s cheese. This is not a big part of a High Elven diet, however, some Elves have been known to harvest meat and cheese for trade and eat it. High Elves traditionally make great hunters, and there is a sport which High Elves play where they “hunt” an animal but do not harm them. They shoot a blunt arrow at the animal or catch it and release it. This is more of a sport. The animals go unarmed. The high Nobles wanted to ban this sport and outlaw eating animals products, but this was not allowable by the priests since the original Elves hunted and it is mentioned in the lore of the elves that great feasts of meat were had. There is one holiday that occurs every 36 years where High Elves and Woodland elves feast together. The High Elves will on this occasion partake in hunted meat provided by the Woodland elves who are excellent hunters. The High Elves will eat very small quantities of this meat. To honor special guests of different races, the High Elves will sometimes make a feast for guest. There are some roasts that one may see at these feasts, but these more often that not go uneaten by the High Elves themselves.

Military Tradition

The military tradition of High Elves is a very long and honed one. ALL High Elves serve in the militia. High Elven children are taught martial arts from the time they can hold a bow and are drilled as units/classes routinely. This life of the militia is not thought of as being militant. High Elves, although military minded are among the most peaceful races on the planet. They just have to kill their enemies and defend themselves to survive. Bow, spear, sword, shield are mere extensions of the body. Fathers and Mothers teach sons and daughters. This is incorporated into the play as a child and drilled as an adult. The struggle against their kin the Dark Elf is never-ending. There are other hostile races and monsters that exist to harass the Elves and one must always be prepared. The art of magic is also taught since birth essentially and nearly every High Elf has some inclination towards magic, although like in warfare not all are born or trained with equal talent and skill. One can write much about the tactics, the weaponry, the lock stepped precision of Elven militias and professional soldiers. Its a beautiful thing to behold and even the most elite Muurdan Empire soldier appreciate the High Elf marching and fighting side by side. High Elves are brave and fearless in battle, but never reckless. The value of life of every High Elf is too high to squander in a reckless act or foolish battle. Being proud, High Elves are not one to run away either, but there actions are deliberate. It is not considered shameful to strategically withdraw if at a disadvantage. Elven archers of all sorts are legendary. A well coordinated barrage of Elven archers is devastating. Opposing armies have been known to melt under Elven arrows. Those armies that decide to charge are met with a phalanx of many row deep spearman. There are also sword masters, and other units of note.



Archer militia: Every high elf is trained to serve in the milita and starts with a bow. Unskilled labor are expected to serve and use a bow. A bow is part of Elf culture.

Spearman milita: Every High elf after ten years in the milita as an archer is expected to form the ranks of spearman.

Soldier: A High Elf soldier is expected to be proficient in the Bow, Spear and Sword.



Veteran Sword Units: There are multiple sword units from the defensive swordsman using sword and shield, to the offensive Swordsman using High Elven great swords. There are are also swordsman with light curved swords for the use on Calvary like Cutlasses. Some nobleman are fond of a very thin sword like a rapier that is made of exceedingly hard and sharp metal forged in the magical elven way. These swords are so fast that they go unseen and have been known to slice limbs off without the victim realizing until they fell off.



Veteran Pole Units: The High Elven infantry are handed first a bow and then a spear. They are drilled since small children as every High Elven citizen is expected to serve in the Militia. There is an assortment of pole weapons that various units are trained with, but the most basic is the spear. The Elven pole arms of use depend on the occasion. The standard spear of the Eastern High Elf has a very sharp point and razor sharp edges. It can ban be used for stabbing, piercing or slashing. The spear has two pieces (sections). A longer piece with the blade and a shorter piece that can be used to extend the spear. This extension allows Elven spearman to take calvary charges. The shorter spears are more effective with shield formations at close range fighting infantry. The shorter piece can be used as a weapon in it's own right as concealed in the handle, base is a small blade. This allows the Spearman to use their weapons even if broken or separated. The material used for the Spears are a unique wood that is light and strong (similar to ratan), what makes the spear special is the elven process of curing the wood. The metal of the blade is of a very fine material. There are other units that use a variety of pole arms like a variation of the glaive and a shorter version of the Bardiche. Mages like to use a shorter version of the Spetum.

Veteran Sword Units: There are multiple sword units from the defensive swordsman using sword and shield, to the offensive Swordsman using High Elven great swords. There are are also swordsman with light curved swords for the use on Calvary like Cutlasses. Some nobleman are fond of a very thin sword like a rapier that is made of exceedingly hard and sharp metal forged in the magical elven way. These swords are so fast that they go unseen and have been known to slice limbs off without the victim realizing until they fell off.

Elite Swordsman - The Elite swordsman use two handed great swords, they are proficient in martial arts, can deflect arrows with their swords and are deadly fighters.

Shadow Warriors: The Shadow warriors are an very elite group of assassins, that are masters of archery, using two blades, martial arts and acrobats. They prefer to fight from afar, but are also deadly up close.

Calvary: The High Elves of the east are fine riders. Their mounts include lions and Horses (being the most common). There is a tradition of dragon riders, but these are mostly of legend.

Flying Units: Units of Griffin mounted units and giant eagles can swoop down into the sky. These units are of the elite, elite and are in limited numbers. There were also once known to be Dragon Riders.

The King of the Eastern High Elves (circa ?)

Chariots: The High elven elite chariot forces are formidable. Two riders. One with lance, one with bow barrel down on the enemy. Blades stick out from the wheels.

Elite Archers: The bow and elf go hand in hand. There are the shorter bows of the calvary rider and the long bows of the archer. Thee are all kinds of Elven bows. There is the move and shoot style of Elven archer and the form the line elven archer.

High Elven King Guard: This is secretive order that little is known about.

The High Elven martial arts is one that uses it’s opponents momentum and weight against itself and combines this fluid motion with breaking moves. High Elven masters are known to break or catch arrows in mid air and break necks of their enemies so swiftly that the naked eye has a hard time following what occurred. A High Elven master can find weaknesses in enemies armor and with a finger strike cause severe damage.

The High Elven navy is one that has a wonderful tradition. There are not many navies that rival the High Elven navy in quality and performance. There are certainly much larger navies, but none such a sight to see. The High Elves have been sea Born people since they came to the Continent Millennia ago. There are the High Elven marines that travel with the navy and patrol the shores from Dark Elf invasion and raids. The ships of the High Elves are a sight to see. They are carved from fallen ancient trees.

Prince

Name: Prince Vaethorion Velegion

Age: 375



From a long line of Nobles of the High Elves. His family is a prominent ruling family among the High elves. His family clan once ruled a very large territory before the wars of the human invasion occurred. The High Elven stronghold held out for centuries of war. Legend says that Hundreds of thousands of humans died attempting to subdue the once proud and mighty elven kingdom. Thousands of elves died in defense. The human dead is known to have been piled up so high that their bones were used as walls and ramparts.The humans eventually won by attrition. Many of the proud high elves were wiling to die rather than surrender. This caused a rift among the High elves. Preferring to choose life over death, the Factions of High elves surrendered on the condition of limited autonomy. Others fled the lands to seek independence elsewhere. The great dispersal lead to tribes of High Elves scattering the planet. The majority were never heard from again. Their fates unknown. The family of Vaethorion was divided. Half chose to surrender, the other half refused. Those who remained and surrendered were dubbed “the Great Capitulators” by some and “the Great saviors” by others. The eventual annihilation of the High elves seemed certain in the face of the Muurdan invasion, and the tide of humans could only be held off for so long. The death of so many illustrious high elves proved to be a horrible tragedy that is mourned to this day with a solemn ceremony and mourning period.



The ancestors of Vaethorion were mighty High elven kings and to this day his father rules over the Eastern High elves that remain. The family of his father were among the “capitulators". The family of his mother who once ruled were the "defiant ones”. They once ruled but were overthrow, forced to resign because they were willing to fight to the last High Elf. From his Mother Vaethorian gained a defiant streak and learned much of his martial prowess. From his father, a long line of Arcane magicians, he learned the secrets of magic. Although, much admired, there are many among the most martial of High elves that see this act of surrender as a badge of shame. Among the more learned, wise, magical Elves, the act of humility involved in saving the High Elven race from sure extinction is a mark of deep wisdom and sacrifice. The two married as an act of love, but also in an attempt to bridge the two factions and create peace among the high elves. Needless to say, the Elves do not forget and the two sides albeit unified by marriage (not marriage but a mostly monogamous relationship) are not at complete peace with each other. The two High elven families are among the most prominent of the Eastern High Elves. The Eastern High Elves maintain good relations with the High Elves of the North, South and West. The histories of the Eastern High Elves and other High Elves is long, interesting but for another time.

Population

Manpower: 247

Population: 158

Ratkin​

Pups: 54
Bucks/Does: 44
Learned: 41

Clean Paws: 17

Dirty Paws: 24​

Aged: 06

Former I.O.C.
Thralls: 05

Former Noble Footmen: 01​

Highly Skilled Workers: 08

Archaeologists: 03
Architects: 01
Engineers: 03
Engineer Assistants: 01​

Spoiler: I.O.C. Aftermath

After helping to rescue what was left of the I.O.C. from the former Paradise Island, some of the old faction have thrown their lot in with the Ratkin. (Post 299)

Births: 00

None at present.​

Deaths: 00

None at present.​

Modifiers: 01

• High Fertility

Ratfolk can quickly repopulate their numbers since they die relatively quickly compared to other races. Females can birth two litters in a year if timed correctly, and those litters will often have an average of two or three pups per birth.​

Statistics

Food: Secure

Producing:

Black Corn
Carrots
Garlic​

Morale: Very High

Wealth: 02 (Earned: 04 / Spent: 02)

• Starting Wealth: 02 - Spent before Port Cestus
  
• Longdead Market: +1 Wealth
  The ratkin that made the trip to the Agora made a small profit from the fine feathers recovered from Paradise Isle. While the coin was welcome, the sense of fulfillment for the dead was far more rewarding in the end. (Posts 311, 312)
• Summer Scrounging: +1 Wealth
  The ratkin managed to gather enough bits and baubles from the Longdead ruins in their free time to accrue 01 Wealth of goods left behind or forgotten. (Post 590)

Influence: Earned: 03 / Spent: 00

• Learning Square: +1 Influence
  Ratkin storytellers helped contribute their own means of education and entertainment at the Learning Square, spreading their influence in their own small way. (Post 330)
• Formed Archaeological Society: +1 Influence
  Over the summer certain humans of the former I.O.C. founded an Archaeological Society near the Learner's Square. Though not a fully fledged guild yet, the Society could provide priceless answers to burning questions about the colony's past. (Post 590)
• Joined Healer's Guild: +1 Influence
  The ratkin join the Healer's Guild in force, gaining 01 Influence in the process. They provide knowledge of herbs and tribal medicine, as well as delousing and grooming services. (Post 590)

Tears of Divinity: 01

• Bone Tear
  One slate colored Tear of Bone, received from the Muurdaan at the beginning of their journey.

Relics/Special Items: 00

None at present​

Mundane Commodities: 03

• Black Corn
• Carrots
• Garlic

Special Commodities: 01

• Exotic Feathers (Luxury Commodity - 01 Unit)
  A few barrels of resplendent feathers recovered from the rotting wreck of the ragged Tyren sloop. Many were sold in the Longdead Agora, but a small unit remains for the ratkin to make use of. (Posts 286, 288, 311)

Notable Supplies: 02

• Digging Tools
  Wheelbarrows, shovels, pickaxes, pulleys, and many other assorted tools meant for digging on an industrial scale.
  
• Black Powder
  A reasonable supply of black powder that was smuggled past customs at Port Cestus.

Guild Affiliations: 03

• Healer's Guild
  Assigned Units:
  
  Clean Paws: 03
  Bucks/Does: 03
  Pups: 05​
• Farmer's Guild
  Assigned Units:
  
  Clean Paws: 03
  Bucks/Does: 04
  Pups: 10​
• Grocer's Guild
  Assigned Units:
  
  Clean Paws: 03
  Bucks/Does: 04
  Pups: 10​

Controlled Locations/Buildings: 02

• Ratkin Warren:
  While its official location hasn't been broadcasted, everyone in the colony knows that the ratkin have a full warren located somewhere nearby. Many speculate that the ratkin have made tunnels all throughout the colony, but others remember that the whole colony is veined with ancient sewers and tunnels regardless. If the ratkin want to find a way underground they surely would, whether they dug it themselves or not.
• Archaeological Society:
  The scholarly men that live among the ratkin have built their own Archaeological Society near the Learner's Square. While it is not a true guild, the Society shows promise and could bloom into something of great value to the colony as a whole.

Feats/Legendary Actions: 01

• Escape from the Breathing Island
  An attempt was made to rescue some stranded souls on the tropical island just off the southeast coast of the colony shore. Many were saved but not all, and by the end of it the beast that held the island on its back submerged itself and took everything of value that was once there. (Posts 272, 281, 282, 286, 288)

Named Characters

Milkweed - Clan Chief - Faction Leader

A contemplative buck with ruby red eyes and fur like pure snow. He was chief of the Black Corn clan before being sent on this journey by command of the Underlords. He is a crafty rat with high ambitions and a deep love for his people. He earned his title as Chief through great pain and trial, setting himself above the rest for his vast intellect and cunning. He despises a full on battle and will often seek to negotiate rather than spill blood. But if it must come to blows he will always seek to win a fight before it begins, in whatever way suits him best.​

Nateema - Clan Shaman - Aged

An unnaturally old doe whose fawn-colored fur has long since been veined with silver. Nateema is not her true name, as the word means 'First Daughter' in the ratfolk tongue. It is a title given to all female shamans when they complete their final rites, though the head shaman of the clan is typically the one who responds to it. Ratfolk shamans are rumored to be both alive and dead at once, and Nateema does nothing to dissuade this perception. She is responsible for the mental and spiritual health of the clan, and is learned in the ways of plants and magic to help guide her family through the tough and trying times. A former member of the Bone Heart clan, she insisted she go on this journey for the sake of her people. Nateema is a dodgy old rat that is fond of riddles and the occasional jape at her Chief's expense.​

Breeze - Smokewalker - Aged

A reclusive but kind buck with grey fur and a white diamond on his forehead. Breeze was becoming an adult by the time Milkweed was born, and as such watched the young chief grow up among their kin. He saw the potential in Milkweed early on and took him under his wing to teach him the finer points of shadow and secrecy. Milkweed had a ravenous appetite for knowledge and soon outgrew his place as Breeze's student. When Milkweed became the new chief he elected Breeze as his personal guard and spymaster, building upon their already deep friendship. Breeze is a master of stealth and has been known to spy, steal, scout, infiltrate, and even assassinate on rare occasions. Don't bother trying to find the Breeze, because it will always find you first.​

Needle - Sniper - Aged

A reserved doe with chestnut brown fur and a white blaze over her nose. Needle is originally from the Black Corn clan, and is also one of Milkweed's many grandchildren. She too showed promise at a young age, but her shy nature held back her full potential until she was nearing her fifth year. She was assigned as a guard for a trade deal with some smugglers and, as you'd expect, things quickly went south. But instead of panicking as others might, a strange calm came over her and she managed to split each of the smuggler's heads from her perch. Not a single rat died that night, and Needle began her sniper training from that day forward. Needle usually keeps to herself or a select few friends, but once you earn her trust she can be a very warm soul, provided you never ever cross her.​

Daisy - Tinker - Aged

An energetic young doe with white fur and a slate gray hood pattern. She comes from the Stone Fang clan as part of a deal Milkweed struck with their chief. From birth she was known to always be active and exploring, constantly getting into things she shouldn't. What surprised much of her clan was that she appeared to have no desire to mate when she was nearing maturity. Instead she found joy in tinkering and fixing many of the gadgets that her clan produced. Without the usual desire to breed and bear litters Daisy was free to pursue her passions, and quickly became one of the most skilled tinkers in the clan. The Stone Fang's chief let Daisy go as an act of good faith between their clans, and because Daisy would not pass her blood to future generations. Daisy rarely has enough patience to sit still, and is always either exploring, chatting with others or tinkering with one of her projects.​

Hawthorn - Poisoner - Aged

A wiry looking buck with blue-grey fur and long white patches near his paws. Hawthorn hails from the Short Tail clan, which is infamous for doing the seedy work ratfolk are rumored to thrive on. His mother tried to steer him towards a life of healing as an herbalist, even going so far as to arrange a mating with a doe from the Bone Heart clan, but Hawthorn found his passion in death early on. He marveled at how the body responded to certain stimuli, and spent his life searching for new plants and substances to experiment with. He's a cheerful enough sort but will often get lost in his work, and his moral compass is somewhat skewed from what the common man would call 'decent'. A mind such as his needs test subjects after all, and there's only so much you can observe from cadavers and livestock.​

Coalback - Miner - Aged

A stoic buck that is larger than most, sporting white fur and a jet black stripe from head to tail. He was originally a member of the Stone Fang clan, and was also traded to Milkweed's company as an act of good faith. While the Stone Fangs are known for producing fine miners and tinkers, Coalback is not the best in his trade. That honor belongs to the doe Fire Eyes, but Coalback is still very knowledgeable of what lies beneath the earth. He might not know every gem or rock by sight alone, but he can wield a pickaxe like no one's business, and he's even trained with black powder for mass mining. Coalback may seem gruff at first, but that's simply because he takes his job very seriously. Danger is ever present underground, and as such he's constantly vigilant for anything that might pose a threat to his clan and kin.​

Fakesmirk - Dirty Paw - Learned

A lithe buck with beige fur and a white underbelly. He earned his name from his ability to smile in the face of danger, regardless of his true feelings at the moment. He often speaks his mind, especially when he has doubts about a plan being presented.​

Steel Vixen - Dirty Paw - Learned

A spirited doe with blue-grey fur and a white hooded pattern. She's very optimistic and holds great faith in her Chief's plans for the clan. She's a terrible flirt and is constantly pining after Milkweed to be her next 'litter donor'. Milkweed has already given her two litters in the past and feels more would be showing unjust favoritism towards her.​

Boulder Rabbit - Dirty Paw - Learned

A huge buck with black fur and a brown underbelly. His name reflects his abnormally long ears and rotund frame, which aptly hides the fact that he is one of the strongest Ratkin in the entire clan. He seldom speaks, but when he does he is concise and to the point. He enjoys wrestling with Coalback when they have the time for it, as they both find they're the only rats that can properly challenge their skills.​

Schwalaut - Former Noble Footman - Thrall

Other than his genuine relief at being rescued not much is known about this man. He says he once served the nobility of the Empire, and as such has etiquette and skills at his disposal. To honor his life debt to the Ratkin he has sworn himself to their service, so that he might offer a dignified shield against the racial stigma surrounding their kind.​

Racial Facts

Important Note!

Ensure you ask Beck to see if your faction knows these facts or not.

Clan Structure

Ratfolk clans can range in number from 20 to over 2000 souls, though none have reached the same populations as the cities they inhabit. The larger clans are all ruled by a single Chief who is supported by a council of Aged that oversee various aspects of clan operations. Clans often see themselves as a large family unit, and much of their behavior reflects this mindset. If ratkin are unfamiliar with another rat, either because they haven't met or they're not well acquainted, they will address each other as 'brother' or 'sister' as a sign of respect. If rats are familiar with each other they will often call each other by name or casually use the term 'sib' in greeting. Younger rats will address adults or those senior to them as 'aunt' or 'uncle', and older rats will primarily address younger ones as 'child', though sometimes 'niece' or 'nephew' is used instead. 'Squeaker' can be used to address children as well, but this is seen as a label for pups and will cause insult among the adolescents. However elderly rats are always referred to as 'grandmother' or 'grandfather' as a sign of deep respect for their wisdom and cunning to have lived for so long.​

Lifespan

Ratfolk only live an average of 20 years, though some have been rumored to live longer with the help of magic and tonics. They reach sexual maturity at three years, and will often be fully grown within four or five. However many are not considered mature adults until they are at least five years old, since hormones dictate much of a younger pup's life until they can control their instincts. Females will start to become infertile at around 10 years, but males can remain fertile throughout their lifetimes.​

Mating & Children

Ratfolk form very tight knit communities and, aside from small stashes of trinkets, have very little sense of personal belongings. The clan provides for all, and all must provide for the clan. Because of this there's really no need for couples to pair off individually to support each other, which means that ratfolk will often have many different partners throughout their lives. In particular the younger pups that reach breeding age find themselves in dire need to reproduce, and this urge is near constant for at least two years. While there's no shame or betrayal in mating with multiple partners, ratkin still typically form emotional bonds with their mates. These bonds can last for many years, and when a previously mated couple or small group grow older they may decide to cohabitate for practical and emotional reasons. Newly born pups are also looked after by the clan at large, and are often raised together in large groups. This helps to build the sense of family that ratfolk hold so dear since the pups grow up directly with their 'brothers' and 'sisters', regardless of blood relation.​

Religion

Ratfolk religion revolves around a central idea of ancestor worship, going all the way back to their matron deity Neesa who they believe to be the mother of their race. There are two primary aspects to their religion: moral guidance and communion with the dead. There are many stories about Momma Neesa (as they call her) that are told to ratfolk youth during their formative years. These stories are meant to teach them good morals, clan law, and survival skills among other things. They often feature Neesa as the protagonist against an array of other spirits like Cat, Dog, Man, Snake, Bear, Fox and Crow. Crow is unique because while he often poses the greatest threat to Neesa he is also the only one smart enough to fully match her wits. Because of this there is a mutual respect between the characters, and they will sometimes work together to overcome a common foe. The communion aspect of ratfolk religion involves their shamans conducting rituals to speak with the dead. This will often be accomplished through 'bone singing', as ratfolk believe there is a wealth of knowledge stored within the bones of both the living and the dead. If their warrens have the space for it they will often create catacombs that house the skulls of their dead. Each skull is inscribed with the owner's name and two symbols, one for the season they were born and one for the season they died. Influential leaders will often have their entire skeleton pieced out and turned into charms or reliquaries, with their skulls being held as prized heirlooms within the clan. In the Bone Heart clan the walls of the Counsel Den are completely lined with the skulls of past chiefs, so that their spirits might bear witness to clan affairs and grant their wisdom when asked.​

Reputation

Ratfolk have earned a reputation as little more than thieves and beggars since they've been forced to live in the dark corners of the Empire. City sewers and inhospitable wastelands have become the only places their kind can grow in number, as other lands are either already inhabited or claimed as 'Imperial Soil'. Because of this ratfolk have had to do many unsavory things to survive in these places, and in this regard their reputations are true. But the clans that have not gone completely feral seek to hold their people to a higher standard than this. They actively seek to teach their children how to fight their instincts as well as basic education and morals. Many young rats will leave the clan to seek wholesome jobs above ground, often being hired as sailors, laborers, or merchants. But just as many youths are lured away into criminal gangs with promises of wealth and prestige. Those 'dirty paws' that return to the clan are used as valuable resources, but the ones that will not return are considered outcast and are often shunned by their own kind.​

-Ratfolk Cant/Slang

- Be Small: A colloquial phrase meant to imply that one should stay silent and out of sight, hidden and remote from danger.
- Birds: Term for any race that typically lives above ground, or 'in the sky' to the ratfolk.
- Cranks: Slang for ratfolk crossbows, so named for the elegant crank system used to reset the heavy strings.
- Crow: Arguably the worst insult a ratfolk can give to any sentient being. It implies one has absolutely no morals or values other than personal gain.
- Dumbing/To dumb: To blind and gag an individual.
- Dustmen: Undead, or those so tortured or jaded as to resemble the undead.
- Froth/Start a froth: Panic or anger/To cause panic or anger.
- Gudgeon: Little fish; Fool; Something easily silenced.
- Many Tails: To have many children. Seen as a good omen in visions.
- Mischief: A group of rats of varying size.
- "No shorts o' losses": A phrase that means 'while safety cannot be certain, no theft or loss of life should occur'. Used as a wish, command, or promise.
- Pense/Pence: To convey what one is thinking without speech. This can be done simply with gestures and smells, but can also be in reference to telepathic or other musical communication. It is a portmanteau of the word “pensive” (to quietly think) and the phrase “to give your two pence” (to give one’s thoughts).
- Rounder: A professional, especially in terms of thievery.
- Rust Heart: A slur used to label the House Elites of the Muurdaanian Empire.
- Stringman: A being that controls others against their will. Often refers to necromancers, but may also refer to hypnotists, creditors, or politicians.
- Stripes: Wounds.
- Squeaker: A pet name often used to describe newborn pups. Can be used to address young ratkin but will certainly cause offense among the adolescents.​

Eradon said:

Spoiler: Question

I was just wondering if it is still possible to join this. I would pm but I need more Posts to do that. I apolgize

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