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See end of article for explanations of the obscure.
GM: "That's not a moon. It's a spaceship!"
Player: "Good. Let's find a door, pick the lock and see if we can hijack it."
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GM: "There is a bantha standing in the road."
Player: "I attack."
GM: "A bantha is a harmless beast of burden."
Player: "Great! There's probably treasure in its pack. I attack."
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GM: "The force is strong in this one."
Player: "Really? Okay then... I kill him now before he powers up."
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Player: "I burst into the room. How many droids do I see?"
GM: "Approximately 3,000."
Player: "I attack."
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GM: "Do or do not. There is no try."
Player: "What, no saving throw?"
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Player: "I turn on the light sabre."
GM: "Roll to see if it's facing the right direction."
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GM: "These aren't the droids you're looking for."
Player: "I just rolled a 20 against Force Will. Yes they are."
GM: ....
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Player: "Auntie Owen! Uncle Beru!... oh.... LEWT!"
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EXPLANATIONS
"Powering up" is marshalling one's strength / power / spells etc. Sometimes it takes a minute or so to gather forces. Other times... not so much.
It is a common practice in gaming to "lewt" (loot) bodies after killing them. No telling what kind of goodies one might find in the pockets. Ignore the ethics-- this may mean survival or even gold! Also ignore that you were first hired to track these guys down because they were lewting dead bodies...
A "saving throw" is a last-chance effort at survival when all else has failed. Successful, you're just unconscious or manage to evade an otherwise fatal blow. Otherwise-- you're dead. No saving throw means you can't possibly avoid the disaster.
3000 droids: gamers have been known to cast all common sense out the window-- in almost every instance.
--o--
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A couple of members have understandably mentioned a recently announced event regarding "Druid Rituals"... and questioned if such conflicted with the Elf Clan Charter regarding "no religious activities".
I discussed this personally with the leaders of Chanwood and they were most informative and cooperative. I think to begin this discussion a quote directly from them would be helpful. Regarding their Druid roleplay and ceremonies, Chanwood states:
"They are no more intended to represent "true" druidism than wearing a sword is intended to express a desire to actually kill someone or promote real-life violence."
The distinction made here is to be noted... for there is an established but not-well-known difference between historical Druids and Druid fantasy mythos. As everyone is aware, Elf Clan is a fantasy group which allows some crossover into areas such as science fiction, steampunk, post apocalyptic and other fantasy themes. Druid mythos would fall into that theme.
While it is entirely possible for Druid mythos to include religious elements, Chanwood assures me they are most aware of the Elf Clan Charter requirements and are careful to not cross that line. I have come to trust their word and honor in such matters so see no need to examine the matter further.
DRUID MYTHOS
Very little is known about real life Druids. The history is extremely scant and even authorities will admit that our "knowledge" of these ancient people are as much from legend and story as real-life archaeological evidence-- perhaps much more.
Druid Mythos on the other hand is as rich and varied as Elven mythos. While based on the lore of Druids, that's about as far as mythos goes. That mythos can range all the way from "early scientists" to "human sacrificing monsters"... as is the case with Elves themselves (as Lord of the Rings fans will testify). Just as we do not engage in "Elven Gods" or "Evil Elf" concepts... Chanwood's Druid roleplay stays away from the religious and evil side of Druid mythos.
ROLEPLAY IN ELF CLAN
I am not personally acquainted with the Chanwood Druid roleplay... but they are well acquainted with our Charter. I have found few other roleplay groups as cooperative, friendly and harmonious as Chanwood, so I trust them to conduct such roleplay within the concepts of Elf Clan guidelines. We recognize of course that in roleplay environments things may take place that are not precisely "Elf Clan" in concept.
For example, during the Ork Wars many a lives were lost and lands ravaged... which of course has nothing to do with the actual harmony that exists in Elf Clan outside of such roleplay scenarios. Most of us are well aware that in reality the Orks (when they are present) are our oldest and most loyal allies. Such did not prevent us from having three rather hilarious and highly entertaining "Ork Wars". Such is the method of RolePlay.
Thus, things which occur within Chanwood roleplay may not be 100% friendly, harmonious and respectful... nor should such be expected. It is roleplay. So long as blood does not gush, language is tempered and other major issues (such as occult, nationalistic, vampiric, modesty, religious etc) are adhered to, battles, ceremonies, plotting, backstabbing and downright unfriendly behavior are all part of the "game"... as roleplay is indeed a game.
So my findings are there is no need for alarm or concern in this matter. Chanwood is a trusted sub-group within our realm, they are very pro-Elf Clan and have been most cooperative in all of my communications with their group. I have found I can discuss just about anything with them without offense either given or taken. As one of the Eldar I find that most refreshing.
Chanwood assures us that any rituals, ceremonies, celebrations or otherwise will be kept within the terms of the Charter. As their honor is established in our group and their word given in that, I have no reason to doubt or believe otherwise. All members may rest assured that such has been examined and found to be standard roleplay concepts. Their druid roleplay is of the fantasy/mythos nature and as such, is part of the fantasy theme that Elf Clan embraces.
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Elf Clan Charter
Fantasy theme usually involves weapons of some kind. RPG (role playing games) are also often a part of fantasy groups. Elf Clan also allows SciFi and Steampunk-based themes, which have their own type of gear.
Following are sensible, balanced weapons guidelines that allow you to enjoy your weaponry while protecting innocent bystanders.
ALLOWED:
* Decorative, non-functional weaponry
* Functional themed weaponry so long as not use against other members during normal activities
* Battle weaponry during battle events (archery, BattleMace, siege devices, castle defensive items, etc)
FORBIDDEN:
* Non-ornamental, active, abusive weaponry (griefer weapons).
* Non-fantasy weaponry (guns, bombs etc) except in appropriate-themed areas.
* Mass-damage weaponry (nukes)
There are exceptions to all of these. Please read below.
We wish you to enjoy your toys and to be able to properly test your weapons, but first and foremost this is a peaceful, relatively safe group. Please assist us in assuring that peace, with our thanks.
EXCEPTIONS:
* All fantasy-type weapons may be worn for decoration (so long as they are not against the Charter, ie-- occult weaponry, black magic items, etc).
* Guns may be tested on sandboxes or facing any sim edge where they can do no harm.
* We do occasionally have massive weapons-related events. Our most popular is the "Elven Magical Nuclear Missile" event. (You'll just have to see it to understand). We also have pirate parties where there is quite a bit of weapons use. There are also science fiction and steampunk regions where such are acceptable. And there are always the "Ork Wars"... which are rare but incredibly weaponry-intense events that are part of our fondest-remembered events. Note that these are AUTHORIZED events. Doing the same thing in an unauthorized area or manner would be prohibited.
* You may use combat-type weapons at any time in areas specifically designed for that purpose (ie, battle arenas).
* You may demonstrate animation-only type weaponry anywhere, so long as such is not used against another person unless they are a willing participant (ie, ask permission first). Animation-type weaponry would be weapons that have special effects, but no ammunition of any kind. Please be considerate of others and do not use such devices at events, or where crowds are gathered.
* Using animated weapons on an unwilling victim will be considered a psychological attack and will be dealt with as griefing.
* You are hereby notified that dwagons, pixies and other tiny creatures tend to start pie and toilet paper fights at the drop of a hat. What can we say? They're critters. But you do have the right to ask them to stop if they're annoying you. However, you will find that if you ask politely (and maybe give them a cookie), they will give you pie and toilet paper devices with which to join in the fun.
* Target weaponry (archery, throwing spears, etc) MUST have the consent of your target before use. Yes, you must literally ask for-- and receive-- permission to use someone as a target. The exception of course, is if you both are packing. :D
Exception: pie fights do tend to start unannounced. It's just one of those things.
ROLE PLAYING CONCEPTS-- friendly and without attitude
These are THEMED sims, not Role Playing sims. "Role Playing" on these islands refer basically to character and dress. It is friendly role play, with people playing their parts-- or not-- as they feel so inclined. There is no requirement for "OOC" (out of character) chat, nor IC chat. The mode people speak in is according to their mood at the time.
There is to be no "rude" or abusive RP. Role players are welcome; "attitude" isn't. No role player should ever be rude to a guest or fellow Elf Clan member. No role player should ever attack anyone for any reason (with the exception of mutually condoned battle). No special tag is required to walk these lands. It's friendly RP.
What we mean is that if your character is ordinarily rude and offensive (ie, dwarven, ork, drow)-- Elf Clan is different. All of our races get along here. It is possible to be "politely horrendous" and humorous in such rather than abusively offensive. So even Orks are expected to keep themselves in check. It's totally okay for an Ork to say, "Arg... another pinkie!" It's not okay to say, "You're on my turf. Get out or I'll stomp you." That's not how our RP works.
Exception: During sponsored battles... all bets are off. But these are highly advertised and people are pretty much aware something major is going on. Even then, our warriors tend to be generally friendly, and more funny than antagonistic. :D
NOTE REGARDING ORCS, DWAGONS, PIXIES, WHELPS and other creatures:
Orcs swear they are never rude. We do not suggest disagreeing with them; they are after all, Orcs. Surprisingly, they are Elf Clan's oldest and most loyal allies. Same goes for dwagons and other tiny creatures. They do tend to do whatever they want to do. Please tolerate them. If one is bothering you, a polite cease-and-desist IM will usually do the trick.
--o--
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Elf Clan Charter
TINIES, MER, DWARVES AND HOBBITS
TINIES
...were invented by Wynx Whiplash, Kage seraph and Noramyr Gullwing. Since that time many
merchants have created various forms of Tinies. Tinies are characterized by three things:
1) Their form
2) Their type
3) Their nature
FORM. Tinies are made by distoring bodies, folding the abdomen, arms, legs feet and hands to make them as small as possible. Special animations are used to enable walking, running and other movement. Tinies are a genre all their own.
TYPE. Tinies can be of several types. While most tend to be small nimals, tinies can also include dwagons, mechs, chibi and a variety of other creatures. Small animals can either be baby in form (such as baby bears, puppies, kittens, piglets etc), they can also be adult small animals such as otter, ferrets, cats, rabbits and more.
NATURE. Tinies are nutz. I mean absolutely, bald-faced, play-in-the-mud looney. Think your "inner child" and then crank that up a few dozen notches.
I could say more about tinies, but I think it best to refer to an article which I'm told is considered fairly definitive of the genre. To learn more about tinies: Tinies for Biggies
MERS
I am by no means the authority on merfolk, but I can relate how they have appeared in Elf Clan.
"Mer" as a term refers generally to half-human, half-fish (generally the top half is human, but that is flexible). The fish part can be scaled, shark, dolphin, whale, octopus, lobster or just about any aquatic creature.
Mer of course live primarily underwater, although in most instances they can magically turn their bottom half human and walk upon the land (they can do so at will, with no difficulty). On land, mer often appear to be fae in form (without the wings), but will almost always bear signs of the sea (green seaweed hair, scales at places on their skin, or sea-themed dress and jewelry). Their skin is quite often pastel blue or green in shade, although such can vary widely.
Most mer have limited magic, mainly in the ability to speak to, understand and command all aquatic creatures. Some however can exercise very intense power over water or anything water / sea / ocean related, exceeding even the Fae and Elven in control of water-based magic. The most powerful of Mer can create a monsoon or tidal wave.
In historical myth, others, such as sirens, are potentially dangerous or even deadly man-eaters (fortunately we have no such in Elf Clan). In Elf Clan all of our mer are easy-going and friendly and often come out on the land to visit with friends. While mer of legend are often nude, Elf Clan mer (in deference to our G rated theme) will always wear at the very least ample sea-shell covering, some even wearing entire corsets or clothing. Elf Clan mer tend to enjoy ornate decoration, especially in their hair.
Mer prefer to live underwater, usually in ornate abodes or even castles. Almost everything in their lives is sea / ocean themed, from their appearance to their jewelry to their property. A mer will tend to have a large clamshell to hold valuables rather than a treasure chest. Their bed will be in a huge oyster or clam shell. Water theme permeates everything mer. Mer tend to be rather rare... mainly due to the nature of our VR environment (most of our members are land based, and we are a rather social group).
So it's a rare individual that chooses to play mer as a primary role... although Eldar Peter Lioncourt has been working overtime to make mer feel more welcome. Still, those who take a mer role will likely find most of their time spent in leg form, on land, with dips into the water only when they can no longer handle the dryness of the air.
DWARVES
In Elf Clan, dwarves are close friends of the Elven (as is the case with the Orcs). Dwarves are pretty much as crude, lewd and rough as the Orcs (within our G rated theme). However they are far more intelligent, being extremely skilled in mining and metalworking. They make the finest swords in creation. A dwarven sword enhanced by Elven magic is a powerful and rare weapon indeed.
Conceptually, the Elven are entranced with Dwarven metalwork, recognizing the skill and beauty. Elves acquire dwarven-mined Mithril silver... the finest metal on the planet (far, far more valuable than gold). As light as dust and far stronger than steel, mithril armor is the choice of Elven leaders. Dwarven steel is no less desired, for while Mithril is scarce and expensive, Dwarven steel is more obtainable. No steel beats Dwarven steel.
Dwarves are short and stout, but not as short as most people think, averaging 4 to 5 ft in height. Dwarves cannot swim (they are too stout to float) and are deathly afraid of water. They wear heavy, thick armor, which to their strong, intertwined muscles is as light as a feather. Dwarves are as strong as an Orc. They do not move quickly, but their movements are precise and full of power. A Dwarf with a battle axe or hammer (their preferred weapons) is a terrifying foe.
Dwarven women have beards, varying as widely as hairstyles vary among other races. Many like to braid their beard hair or decorate it with beads. Dwarven men consider such beards quite lovely; indeed, a woman without a beard to a dwarf is considered more of a girl and not all that attractive. The exception are elven maidens, whom the dwarves find so beautiful as to be astounding. But dwarves view such with the utmost respect... and prefer to stick to their own when choosing a mate. For while Elven have an unearthly beauty, they are considered far too "fragile" to make good Dwarven wives.
Few of our members play a regular dwarf, since they are by nature smaller and less physically appealing to most virtual players. But those who do play dwarves usually do so with incredible detail and richness of character.
Dwarves have very limited magic, but what they have is powerful. They can use magic to fire their forges, to enhance their weapons, and dig their mines. Most other magic they really don't care about, preferring a good, sharp axe to a magic spell when in a fight.
HOBBITS
Hobbits are quite a bit smaller than dwarves, averaging 3 to 4 ft in height, and are not nearly as stout. From a distance a hobbit can be mistaken for a portly child, both in size and features, for their faces tend to look younger than they really are. Hobbits are a wholly unremarkable race, preferring to spend their days in leisure, growing food, eating, growing more food, eating again, smoking pipes, drinking ale, telling tales and sleeping.
Their one claim to fame is the undeniable courage shown in the War of the Rings... in which four selfless Hobbits were responsible for saving all of the other races from the evils of Sauron. For this reason, Hobbits are greatly respected by all the other races, the debt of Frodo and the Fellowship far too great to ever be forgotten. This gave the largely unnoticed hobbits a sense of self-respect, and while they still have no desire for fame outside of their dining halls, they now as a race hold their heads a little higher, and never, ever, deny a young Hobbit the right to explore if he so desires (although they still consider such a bit of foolishness).
As a result we have the occasional Hobbit visit Elf Clan. They usually show up out of nowhere and disappear just as quickly. They are of course most welcome to stay for as long as they wish and even make their home here.
Hobbits have one remarkable trait: they by far set the finest feasts... and they without question make the very best ale in all the lands. No one even comes close to Hobbit ale. That is their true claim to fame and their primary trading material. Even the Orcs will admit that the Hobbits make one fine brew, and because of that saving grace have given their word to no longer bar-b-que Hobbits, for as much as Orcs love the taste of Hobbit, they love the taste of Hobbit ale even more.
(Nevertheless, Orcs have at times been known to make a Hobbit "dummy" out of pig and roast it over a fire... remembering fun times past.)
Hobbits in Elf Clan usually take the role of travelers, sometimes merchants, or sometimes are a temporary role just out of curiosity. They are highly respected in our group, for obvious reasons. Playing a good Hobbit role is challenging, for as with the role of "human" there is no absolutely clear definition. So usually one playing a Hobbit needs to figure out a personality and trade behind the character.
--o--
part 1
part 2
part 3
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Elf Clan Charter
DRAGONS, FAE, PIXIES and HUMANS
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Continuing the series on Elf Clan roles and how those roles appear in our group, we add
additional races to the group. If anyone out there wishes to see a certain role covered, please let
me know in comments and I'll discuss those in a future post. |
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DRAGONS |
Dragons in Elf Clan tend to be very similar to "D&D" dragons in many aspects. They are always
intelligent, often magical, tend to be shape-shifters, and range in size, attributes and power.
However our dragons tend to be a bit more versatile, less "classified" in nature, and quite a bit
more laid back. |
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Each dragon is highly individual, our members pretty much choosing their own appearance and
roles. Very few of our members are full-time dragons; most will adopt that role as the mood suits
them. However once in a while we will have players whose primary role and appearance is that of
an adult dragon (I can remember four such people in our history... not counting the Dwagons of
course). |
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Dragons can range in size from that of quite small (a whelp) to quite large (measuring 30m
or more in length). Dragons can be bipedal or quad, or can be wyverns (a type of dragon that has
wings instead of front legs). There is virtually no end to the style and abilities of dragons. |
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When it comes to magic, dragons have everyone beat save unicorns. A dragon that specializes in
magic can actually travel time itself-- something even our most advanced Elven cannot do
(fortunately, the dragons are wise enough to rarely do so. Dwagons however... not so wise). Some
dragons can exist for hours under water, or even in the void of space. Some dragons can go
"between", a type of teleportation (taken from the McCaffrey dragon series). Others are simply
land dragons and make no boast to any powers other than simply being a dragon. |
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Most dragons are very long-lived. While the lore will vary greatly, in general they do not consider
one of themselves to be "adult" before 500 years. Some dragons can live thousands of years
before dying of old age... and some, like some Elven, will live forever unless external causes end
their lives. |
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In Elf Clan, dragons are intelligent, always friendly, and are usually understatedly powerful. They
tend to be quiet, reserved and are more observers than participants. Elf Clan as a group
welcomes dragons (members even voted to name our tavern "The Thirsty Dragon"), something
the dragons appreciate as there are many places where they are not welcome due to their size
and claimed "lag" factors. |
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Dragons do have one special place in our group: they are the guardians of the lands. Anyone who
claims a dragon as a form can be an (unofficial) guardian, and take his rightful post in front of
ElvenMyst Castle-- a place reserved specifically for Guard Dragons. |
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FAE |
More commonly referred to as "fairies" (or more historically correct, faerie)... the Fae are (by
some accounts) distant relatives of the Elven (about as distant as one can get). Fae and Elven can
mate, although such is most rare. The primary sign of a fae is its wings, most often insectoid in
form (butterfly, dragonfly, moth, etc). Other wing forms may be that of light, dust or other magical
components. |
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The fae are as widely varied in form, purpose and power as the Dragons. Although not as powerful
as dragons or unicorns in magical ability, nor as widely varied as the Elven in their skills of such
arts, what magic they employ is very powerful. Their magic tends to lean more toward nature and
emotions. A fae can "enchant" others, cause others to do their bidding, create visions, and other
mind / body / emotion oriented magic. Their control over nature is unequaled by any save the
unicorn. They can cause a flower to instantly bloom, a tree to grow from a sapling to full stature,
lightning to strike from the skies. |
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Fae can range from extremely shy and very seldom seen, to extremely outgoing and forceful in
personality. Elf Clan fae tend to dress in a wide variety of garb (always g-rated of course, although
some slip toward the PG at times). The most popular form of dress tends to be very ornate, light,
full-body garb with jewelry and special-effects (magic bling). Our fae often glow slightly, and are
often found hovering rather than standing. The fae are as individually-designed as the dragons,
without specific type or plan. They are as unique as their creators. |
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Fae vary in size from quite small (do not confuse them with pixies) to full-size women. They tend to
be slender in nature and are usually quite beautiful. However, fae can be males as well (obviously),
and can be ugly (both male and female)-- although such is so rarely seen in Elf Clan as to be pretty
much non-existent. |
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PIXIES |
Pixies are close relatives of the Fae. Pixies are always small in size (ranging from waist-height to
a mere six inches tall). The primary difference other than physical size (for there are some quite
small fae that some mistake for pixies), is their by-nature tendency toward silliness. Pixies are
often pranksters, even being mean at times (by comparison to historical pixies, Elf Clan pixies are
amazingly well-behaved). |
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Pixie magic is far less powerful than that of fae, limited mainly to "effects". Pixie magic can cause
things to vibrate, create noise, "pop", move, open and close doors and drawers, or "misplace"
(move an item magically from one location to another). It is believed that pixies could be far more
powerful if they ever bothered to learn more, but no pixie would be willing to waste time on such
endeavors; pixieness is far more fun. |
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Pixies by nature tend to be lewd, crude and obscene (in the manner that Orcs are by nature violent
sociopaths). In lore they often disdain clothing (or alternately wear the most revealing and sensual
of attire) and despite their tiny size, flaunt themselves at others (it seems the smaller the more
aggressive). They can be quite possessive (remember Tinkerbell?). But as stated, Elf Clan pixies
are very well behaved both in manners and dress. Nevertheless, they seem unable to restrain
themselves when it comes to teasing Orcs. Get a pixie around a dwagon -- and you have all the
makings of mischief waiting to happen; they will tend to feed off one another, one impish idea
fostering another. |
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Pixies are directly responsible for one of Elf Clan's major wars, the Orc-Pixie war, which they
instigated by redecorating the Orc Embassy so it would "look prettier". (The Orcs didn't think much
of the doilies, flowers, teddybears and pink as far as the eye could see). The two days of sheer
mayhem that followed was considered by most to be quite fun. |
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Like dwagons, pixies never mean harm. They just seem to get into more than their fair share of
trouble. It is not unusual to find a pixie standing around trying to "think of something to do". When a
pixie tries to think of "something to do"... time to lock the doors and shutters. |
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HUMANS |
Of course there are humans in fantasy roles. The greatest problem our members have is getting
used to the Elf Clan type of human, which is very much Lord of the Rings in nature. The most
common problem new members have is overcoming the "Conan the Barbarian" concept of
human, which simply does not much fit in with Elf Clan (these are Elven lands, not Gor). The other
area of confusion has been with "Vikings"... which do not yet exist. Members can research
"Rohan" and find very similar concepts, fully in line with Tolkien fantasy. |
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Humans are no more restricted in their role than anyone else, but they need to remember one
thing: The time of Elf Clan precedes the ascent of man by a very long period. So absolutely
nothing of our present world or human history--at all-- would be found in Elf Clan lands. (Such
things that we allow are in high sky.) |
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This does not limit humans at all. One simply has to remember that humans need to exist within the
realm of "reasonable fantasy". Wizards and mages are common human roles. Both male and
female barbarians are fine (so long as our members remember this is a family-oriented, G-rated
group. No Conan types or Red Sonjas. That's fairly unrealistic in concept and again, this is not
Gor). |
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Human roles can be interesting because humans (as the Elven admit) are "frantic" to accomplish
things within their limited lifespan of under 100 years. They learn quickly, furiously, and can
achieve great things, driven by their own mortality. Human wizards can be quite powerful. But... not
all humans need be fantasy in nature. They may be tavern keeps-- or those who hang around
taverns. They may be ex-mercenaries (not much call for active ones in Elf Clan). Perhaps they are
artisans or merchants (merchants are the most popular human role). |
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It actually takes a great deal of imagination to be a human, as their roles are not as clearly defined
as say, Elven, Orc or Dragon. A human's role tends to be more in their personality and task rather
than their form... for there is nothing unusual or special about the form of a human. They are not
skilled like the Elven, powerful like Orcs, nor can they fly like the fae. Humans are somewhat
"ordinary"... distinguished only by their mind, personality and imagination. Indeed, a well-played
human is often the finest of all roles-- for it takes a player quite imaginative and creative to make
the role work properly. They truly must pull the character up by its bootstraps... and create it from
nothing. Unlike other characters, there is no real foundation for humans-- other than that they exist
just about everywhere. |
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--o-- |
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CLICK HERE FOR PT 1
CLICK HERE FOR PT 2
CLICK HERE FOR PT 4
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Elf Clan Charter
ORCS / ORKS. Both spellings are valid in Elf Clan, for our Orks are a unique mixture of the two
genres (Orcs are fantasy, Orks are science fiction). The head of the Orc clan, Schlitzie Martini, is a
great fan of Space Orks and has blended that genre into our Fantasy Orks... but not to such an
extent that it ruins the fantasy nature. They adopted the modern spelling as well as some of the
building styles. As a result, Elf Clan Orks tend to be a mixture of the genre, with each Orc/Ork
choosing his/her preferred role. (Wayfinder note: I personally tend to prefer Schlitizie's fantasy-
based building textures, hint hint. But to each his own. In our group, the terms Orc and Ork are
used pretty much interchangeably, although for greater accuracy "Orc" is more fantasy-correct.).
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The only thing an Orc fears is Elven, and even that is more of a healthy respect (the feeling is
mutual). Orc are as strong as Elven (sometimes stronger) but not as fast. Because of Elven speed
and intelligence, it is generally well-known that a single Orc against a single Elf is no contest; the
Elf will win without much working up a sweat. This is offset however by the fact that while Elven
often travel alone, Orcs travel in packs... making them quite dangerous to an Elf unfortunate
enough to cross their path. (That's a historical note; Elf Clan has no such issues for here, Orcs are
peaceful. Generally.) |
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Just as there are different kinds of Elves, there are different kinds of Orcs. Tolkien Orcs are
generated from Elven by Sauron via use of the dark arts. Orks however are basically plants that
reproduce via spoor (and thus are without gender). The difference between the two is significantly
defined: a Tolkien Orc, although able to take quite a bit of punishment, having a heart and brain
can be killed pretty much like any other creature. Orks are another thing. They can take a great
deal of physical punishment and are extremely difficult to destroy completely. An Ork can actually
have his head cut off and still heal if someone puts it back on its neck. (After all, they never used it
much in the first place.) In Elf Clan this doesn't matter much, as they don't really have much
opportunity to kill or be killed. Thus such things become technicalities. It seems in Elf Clan the
majority of these members take the form of Orcs rather than Orks... although their style of clothing
varies considerably between the two races. |
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Left to themselves, the Orks have a very rough and primitive society bordering on the violent. In Elf
Clan that is very much toned down. Our Orks are almost polite... for an Ork. Nevertheless, every
once in a while they are the source of enjoyable and chaotic "wars" with one of the other races,
which is always a high time of fun in Elf Clan. Both the Ork-Elf war and the Ork-Pixie war are
historical landmarks of our group. |
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DWAGONS. A creation of Eren Padar (Snoots Dwagon), dwagons are baby dragons.
Dwagons are smart and tough and full of attitude and cookies. |
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Dwagons range in age from newly hatched to under 100 years old (which for a dragon, is a child).
They are highly intelligent (having inherited genetic memory) although not necessarily wise (that
requires experience). Dwagons are built like a chunk of rock. Although only about two feet tall they
weigh around 80 pounds. Kicking one is like kicking a sack of cement with sharp rocks
sticking out the side, as dwagon scales are likened to "reinforced diamonds". Dwagons think fire
is "cozy", find explosions to be a "fun ride" and will try almost anything at least twice. Lacking the
wisdom of experience and being near indestructible, Dwagons are fearless. |
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Dwagons love cookies and have rather odd diets, ranging from "flat fwoggies" to waffles (a staple
of all tiny creatures). They are very powerful when it comes to magic, but don't always have the
greatest control of such. Once when trying to time-shift a land to earlier garden days they threw it
back completely to the age of sulferous tar-pits... which delighted the Dwagons and Orks no end.
On another occasion the Dwagons "tweaked" an Elven magical time/space portal-- which resulted
in them discovering Star Trek, Star Wars, TRON, the Matrix and other things of modern man...
which again delighted the Dwagons no end-- and caused the Elven no end of headaches.
(Fortunately they also brought back aspirin... which has been a benefit to Elven group-wide when
dealing with Dwagons, Orks and Pixies). The Elven relegated such Dwagon antics to magical
high-sky floating builds and allow the Dwagons to go nutz there. |
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Dwagons are close friends of pixies; they often play together. Both are the bane of Orks, regularly
taking it upon themselves to help "decorate" Ork abodes (which the Orks really don't appreciate at
all). Dwagons are very friendly, highly creative and highly unpredictable. The Elven have a saying,
"There is no controlling dwagons." |
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[Genre note: Some refer to Dwagons as "hatchies", which is incorrect, as "Hatchie" is a brand, as
is the term Dwagon. While both are indeed baby dragons, they are very dissimilar in nature,
Dwagons tending to be a bit more respectful and somewhat less chaotic than Hatchies. However
there does tend to be a blending of all baby dragons in concept-- and referral to them all as either
Hatchies or Dwagons while not precisely accurate-- is nevertheless common. ] |
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CLICK HERE FOR PT 1
CLICK HERE FOR PT 3
CLICK HERE FOR PT 4
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Elf Clan Charter
ELF CLAN ROLES
In general, roles in Elf Clan are that of form more than of action. We are considered a "theme" group rather than heavy "role playing".
The Dwagons are very role-oriented by nature, as are the pixies, orcs and dragons. Other roles are more open and non-precise. Elf Clan is often referred to as being more easy-going and laid-back than other groups. Rather than focusing on story-drama and sexuality (which often forms the center of other fantasy groups), Elf Clan members tend to simply enjoy one another's company.
Our roles tend to be skin-deep, our nature open and friendly, and our members in general tend to be shape shifters more than in other groups. Rather than defining roles for our members, we allow our members to define themselves. No one is barred from Elf Clan or these lands because of their preferred form or activity (so long as such respects our charter... which specifies accepted conduct in our home). So these are just general outlines of our primary roles-- roles that we see people adopting on a regular basis. To get a flavor for what Elf Clan is and what role you may wish to adopt, visit ElvenSong Castle in Inworldz (or ElvenMyst castle in Second Life), grab a tour document, and visit all the places shown. It is likely something within will tweak your interest-- and you will discover the role that you yourself will develop.
ELVES, ORKS and DWAGONS
"What is an Elf?" is the question most commonly asked in Elf Clan. It's a valid question, for the concept of "elf" is not clearly defined in the roles of fantasy literature. Most commonly recognized are Tolkien Elves from Lord of the Rings, but those are obviously not the Elven of English literature, much less "Keebler Elves".
These are by no means the only roles available, nor are they "set" definitions. There are just generalized concepts of typical roles that have formed in our group over the years. They can be altered or added to at personal whim.
ELF CLAN ELVEN
Elf Clan Elves take primarily three classifications:
HIGH ELVEN. Not named because of rank, but because of choice of environment. The High Elven tend to carve their abodes out of the solid rock of mountains... high places. In the past Elf Clan has always resided in "mountainous" type landscapes with large hills, mountains and waterfalls throughout. This environment was more apparent on the old sims of ElvenHearth and ElvenHope... and on our current Inworldz sims of ElvenGlen, ElvenHope and several other mountainous regions.
High Elven are often typified by their style of dress, which is flowing, luxurious and highly ornamented. Rich colors and embroidery decorate their clothing, and highly decorated armor in battle. Unlike Tolkien Elven, Elf Clan Elves consider dwarves close friends and often trade with them to obtain the finest metalworks.
Physically our High Elven closely parallel Tolkien's elves. Both males and females tend to be tall and slender. Three times stronger than mankind, lightning reflexes, unerring accuracy and balance. Our Charter has HONOR as its first point, which is the core principle of all our society.
The High Elven spend more time in intellectual pursuits so can be powerful wielders of earth magic... almost the equal of dragons and unicorns (but not quite).
FOREST ELVES. The Forest Elves are the same "race", but prefer to live in wooded areas. This has become more common on our Inworldz lands where we have vast forest areas in numerous regions. The Forest Elves prefer to wear less ornate, simpler clothing, preferring comfort to beauty. They enjoy rich neutral colors such as brown, tan, yellow, orange, green or red for highlights, and tend toward sturdy cloth and leather as their daily wear as their lifestyle is more physically demanding than the high elves. Their forest magic is powerful, though perhaps not quite as developed as the high elven. Physically they are somewhat stronger than the High Elven and tend to be more practiced in arts of weaponry.
DROW. The Drow in Elf Clan tend to be highly individualistic. They are a different race of Elves, more like very distant cousins of the other Elves. Some claim the Drow are a mixture of Elves and Dark Fae, but that is unverified. Others state the Drow are "fallen" Elven (a Tolkien concept, but equally unverified in Elf Clan). In Elf Clan we tend to consider the Drow as a race of Elven that turned to dark arts and evil under the reign of Sauron, then changed their ways when they discovered Elf Clan lands. Their skin can range in color from gray to blue to violet. Their ears tend to be much longer and more pointed than other Elves. Eyes are usually white, steel, violet or red. Hair can be white, blue, violet or black. The Drow tend to focus more on physical pursuits than magical or intellectual. They prefer to live in caverns either in mountainous areas or deep underground.
NIGHT ELVEN. Very rare, the Night Elven are a form of Drow which are solid black from head to toe and look more like walking shadows than Elves. They wander the forests at night and are extremely powerful in magic, perhaps even moreso than the High Elven. Night Elven are very rare in these lands, hardly ever seen (which is as they prefer it). They are by no means evil, but neither do they tend to be social (with some exceptions). It is almost impossible to capture and hold a night elven... suicidal in fact. Of our Elven races, the Night Elven, while living in peace with all, are the most dark, both in appearance and nature.
The Night Elven and their characteristics are a pure Elf Clan-created character. Without lore precedence, these were created in the early days of Second Life as a protective role in Elf Clan. Their claws carried enough punch power to knock a griefer across three sims. Their totally black appearance-- in those days-- was a very intimidating avatar. Between the Elven Elite Guard and the Night Elven-- Elf Clan was well protected and developed a reputation for no-nonsense and zero tolerance when it came to griefing.
That's the Elven. Now for the other races.
CLICK HERE FOR PT 2
CLICK HERE FOR PT 3
CLICK HERE FOR PT 4
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