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Author Topic: "Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia  (Read 26249 times)

Opaopajr

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Well, this is it kids... sanity's precipice. :cool:

This'll be a Play-by-Post where I am new to running Talislanta (viiiirgin!), and I hope most of you are too! (:o be gentle) So far the concept is mostly what it says on the tin.

I wanna test out a mostly RAW barebones Talislanta on its rather "high concept" world through a sword & planet world lens (pushes up my 'problem glasses'), with the twist of a disco soundtrack aesthetic instead of an acid heavy metal one. /pursed lips smirk
:D

What that means is euphoric, flamboyant, and more than a touch shallow... also it's an excuse for me to post video links to cheesy videos and bad fashion. ;) (Yeeeees, we will have violence, too! :rolleyes: )

I dunno how many players are too many for Talislanta, but eh, if it can handle Stable of Characters playstyle like D&D (quick chargen, low PC attachment, can split up, regroup, and/or wander off into the sunset like Conan/Rastan) we can do that if there's a lot of players. (:o no seriously, please be gentle) So let's see a show of victims while I decide a starting location, any demographic & resource restrictions, and other world building context.

Pray for us all. :)

PS: ... yes, it should be "do the hustle." :p this is off to an amazing start! I have a good feeling about this, bring facial tissues. :D
« Last Edit: July 14, 2020, 01:01:58 PM by Opaopajr »
Just make your fuckin' guy and roll the dice, you pricks. Focus on what's interesting, not what gives you the biggest randomly generated virtual penis.  -- J Arcane
 
You know, people keep comparing non-TSR D&D to deck-building in Magic: the Gathering. But maybe it's more like Katamari Damacy. You keep sticking shit on your characters until they are big enough to be a star.
-- talysman

SHARK

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #1 on: July 15, 2020, 04:36:28 AM »
Greetings!

Sounds awesome, my friend! I'm game! I have always loved Talislanta!

Semper Fidelis,

SHARK
"It is the Marine Corps that will strip away the façade so easily confused with self. It is the Corps that will offer the pain needed to buy the truth. And at last, each will own the privilege of looking inside himself  to discover what truly resides there. Comfort is an illusion. A false security b

Opaopajr

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #2 on: July 15, 2020, 01:19:28 PM »
You got a seat, SHARK! :D Check out the latest Talislanta topic to get a sense of where I wanna go with this, and help me narrow down a culture & location! (And whisper a prayer for our sanity. :o)
Just make your fuckin' guy and roll the dice, you pricks. Focus on what's interesting, not what gives you the biggest randomly generated virtual penis.  -- J Arcane
 
You know, people keep comparing non-TSR D&D to deck-building in Magic: the Gathering. But maybe it's more like Katamari Damacy. You keep sticking shit on your characters until they are big enough to be a star.
-- talysman

insubordinate polyhedral

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #3 on: July 15, 2020, 03:03:37 PM »
I'd like a seat!

Also, which edition? :D

Mordred Pendragon

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #4 on: July 15, 2020, 03:25:00 PM »
Count me in.

Never read or played Talislanta but I want to give it a try.

Also the obligatory disco music....

Sic Semper Tyrannis

Spinachcat

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #5 on: July 15, 2020, 08:20:53 PM »
I want to play an elf! :D

Let us know which edition you choose. I downloaded the free PDFs of the previous editions, but have only been reading through the 1st edition so far. Looks cool.

Opaopajr

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #6 on: July 16, 2020, 04:23:50 AM »
You got a seat, Spinachcat! :D (But you can only identify as, not play as, an elf in Talislanta. :p RAW viiirgin! GM needs you to be gentle :o :D )

I choose you, 2e! :) Because it has been the one I've been currently reading the most for setting info.

(Rules look like they don't have huge shifts between editions -- which is a big selling point for CoC, I'm surprised not used as a selling point for Talislanta!)

... aaand to give you a sense of the alien Disco-Italo-Funk sound I am thinking, some Yugoslavian disco-funk, Boomerang - "'Nothing New from the West'":
https://youtube.com/watch?v=AJJqbtovT2k&list=PL4lFP9kKE6uw149rhN0HW-4xz6o_DMYn3&index=2&t=0s

/disco struts in barbarian :cool:
« Last Edit: September 14, 2020, 08:56:05 AM by Opaopajr »
Just make your fuckin' guy and roll the dice, you pricks. Focus on what's interesting, not what gives you the biggest randomly generated virtual penis.  -- J Arcane
 
You know, people keep comparing non-TSR D&D to deck-building in Magic: the Gathering. But maybe it's more like Katamari Damacy. You keep sticking shit on your characters until they are big enough to be a star.
-- talysman

Mordred Pendragon

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #7 on: July 16, 2020, 06:50:59 AM »
Quote from: Opaopajr;1140138
You got a seat, Spinachcat! :D (But you can only identify as, not play as, an elf in Talislanta. :p RAW viiirgin! GM needs you to be gentle :o :D)

I choose you, 2e! :) Because it has been the one I've been currently reading the most for setting info.

(Rules look like they don't have huge shifts between editions -- which is a big selling point for CoC, I'm surprised not used as a selling point for Talislanta!)

... aaand to give you a sense of the alien Disco-Italo-Funk sound I am thinking, some Yugoslavian disco-funk, Boomerang - "'Nothing New from the West'":


/disco struts in barbarian :cool:

Talislanta 2E? Nice, I'll see and check it out.

Hopefully I can get a seat in too!
Sic Semper Tyrannis

Opaopajr

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #8 on: July 16, 2020, 07:07:20 PM »
Of course you Doc Sammy & insubordinate polyhedral have a seat. :)

So far that is four. Currently looking at a few desert locales and deciding. Meanwhile think up a fashionable nightclub-barbarian look, and give me some time to get back to narrow down culture and campaign scope.
Just make your fuckin' guy and roll the dice, you pricks. Focus on what's interesting, not what gives you the biggest randomly generated virtual penis.  -- J Arcane
 
You know, people keep comparing non-TSR D&D to deck-building in Magic: the Gathering. But maybe it's more like Katamari Damacy. You keep sticking shit on your characters until they are big enough to be a star.
-- talysman

SHARK

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #9 on: July 16, 2020, 11:36:22 PM »
Greetings!

I'm thinking of a rainbow-skinned Thrall Warrior--Ghandus Dharmen.

Edited: Adding Character Archetype Information

Archetype: THRALL WARRIOR SIZE: 6'S", 300 Ibs. (male); 6'4", 200 Ibs. (female) PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Hairless, devoid of pigment, body covered with colorful tattoos, muscular build. ATTRIBUTES: INT -3, WILL +2, STR +4, DEX +2, CON +4, SPD +1. HIT POINTS: 16 SPECIAL ABILITIES: Immunity to fear, inability to comprehend magic. SKILLS: Primary combat, mounted combat, weaponless combat. EQUIPMENT/POSSESSIONS: Loincloth, sandals, dagger, greatsword with shoulder sheath, garde (parrying armor), Mangonel lizard or Greymane steed. WEALTH: d20 x 5 gold lumens in mixed coins. COMMENTS: The Thralls are a race created by sorcerous hybridization. Bred for combat, they excel as warriors, but possess little aptitude for any other profession. Except for differences in sex, all Thralls look exactly alike. To compensate for this, Thralls decorate their bodies from head to foot with elaborate and highly individualistic tattoos. Most work as mercenary warriors.

Ghandus Dharmen, Thrall Warrior

Size Height: 7’0” Weight: 300-lbs.
Appearance Ghandus is tall, standing at 7'0" in height, with a powerful, muscular physique. Ghandus is hairless and bald, and has bright, rainbow coloured skin. Ghandus has large pointed ears that are slightly angular and swept back against his head, and has pale silver eyes. While Ghandus has a bright and flamboyant appearance, he has the unmistakable gaze of a predator. Despite his charming smile and smooth words, it is easy to sense that lurking below the surface of a cheerful demeanor is a coiled hunger for savage wrath and ruthless violence. Ghandus walks with squared shoulders, upright posture, and a commanding, resolute presence. Ghandus is typically loud in his speech, and radiates motivation, energy and discipline.

ATTRIBUTES
Intelligence: -2; Will: +2; Strength: +5 Dexterity: +1, Constitution: +4; Speed: +1
Attribute Adjustments: Intelligence +1 (Changes Intelligence from -3 to -2), Charisma +1, Strength +1 (Changes Strength from +4 to +5), Dexterity -1 (Changes Dexterity from +2 to +1).

Hit Points 20 (Base of 16+4 Constitution bonus)
Special Abilities: Immunity to Fear; Inability to Comprehend Magic;
Background Village-Dweller
SKILLS: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat
Literacy, Hunting and Fishing, Swimming. Bonus Skill: Command
COMBAT RATING: 4
Movement Base of 120-ft. (100-ft, +20-ft. per +1 point of Speed)
Encumbrance 350-lbs. (Base of 100-lbs, +50-lbs. per +1 point of Strength.)

Weapon Proficiencies
Greatsword, Dagger, Shortbow

Languages Talislan, Kang

Armour

Garde (Thrall Parrying Armour; 1d6 Damage when used to attack; WT: 10-lbs; Protects up to 25 damage); The Garde is a sleeve of black spiked steel armour which is fitted over a Thrall Warrior's left arm, providing protection from damage and also useable in hand to hand combat to strike against and crush an enemy.

Reptile Headed Shield: (Wt. 20-lbs; Protects up to 30 Damage); The Iron Shield is huge, with a finely carved head of some reptilian beast, gazing outward in a grim, hungry expression. The great reptilian head is flanked by a pair of gold lightning bolts, and below the reptilian mouth is a simple inscription in Talislan, in bold, black letters, saying "Relentless". The interior front of the great shield is a pale, metallic green, while the edges of the shield are black. The shield has a rectangular shape.

Weapons

Greatsword (WT: 20-lbs; 1d12 Damage). The immense Greatsword is kept in a scabbard of pale gray Mangonel Lizard Hide, strapped to Ghandus's back. The great blade is polished steel, with a handle inscribed in Talislan, "Judgment is Coming".

Shortsword (WT: 3-lbs; 1d8 Damage); The shortsword has a broad, straight, double-edged blade, some 2-ft. long, with a handle wrapped in black leather, and a large, skull-crusher pommel. The shortsword is kept in a dark leather scabbard on a belt at Ghandus's waist.

Dagger (WT: 1-lb. 1d6 Damage); This 12-inch long combat dagger is kept in a purple-coloured leather scabbard, held in place on his lower chest by an attachement on Ghandus's leather war harness. The dagger's handle is an alternating inlay of black and gold coloured steel, with a skull-crusher pommel.

Hand Axe (WT: 5-lbs. 1d6 Damage); The single-bladed hand axe is kept in a leather thong attached to Ghandus's backpack. The Hand Axe is coated in a sheen of bright copper, with a bit of gold, giving the single-edge axe blade a bright and shimmering appearance. The handle is crafted of some fine wood, and lacquered with a dark reddish-brown. The handle is slightly extended, with a slight sweep to it, allowing the hand axe to be thrown in combat. The handle has a pommel that is carved into a Mangonel Lizard's head, and inlaid carefully with black iron, providing the hand axe with an extra measure of balance.

Shortbow (Horn Shortbow, WT: 5-lbs. 1d8 Damage, 150-ft. Range); Ghandus's Horn Shortbow is kept in a flexible hide case, strapped to Ghandus's back. Ghandus's Shortbow is crafted of fine wood, horn, and sinew. The bow has been lacquered with a dark gray colour, and inlaid with silver. Ghandus's quivers of arrows are all fletched with bright, lime green and silver feathers, with the arrow points being of polished steel.
 
Spear (WT: 4-lbs. 1d8 Damage); This spear is a short spear, featuring a heavy, leaf-bladed spearhead. The spear is kept in a special, flexible case made of lacquered, spongy wood. Ghandus wears the rugged spear strapped to his back.

Ghandus Dharmen wears a pair of thick, black leather boots on his feet. Ghandus often wears a pair of gloves on his hands, which are made of black Marsh Strider Hide. Milk white tunic and kilt, with bright purple embroidery on the edges. A large cloak over his shoulders, being a bright, lemon yellow in colour, crafted of fine and luxurious silk and flamboyantly fringed with silver and purple Sawila feathers. Ghandus Dharmen wears a thick, heavy chain of polished black steel and silver dangling casually from about his neck. The heavy neck chain is crafted of good workmanship and high quality silver, and is valued at 10 Gold Lumen. Also hanging over his chest is a well-made water-skin of some strange hide of a sea creature, with a shark-head stopper at the water-skin's nozzle. The shark stoppered water-skin holds 2-gallons of liquid. The shark head stopper is crafted of shimmering white pearl and inlaid with silver.

Character Background and History

Ghandus Dharmen is a Thrall Warrior from the village of Sembu. The village of Sembu is a large fortified village in the Kingdom of Taz. Much of the land of the Kingdom of Taz is dense, rugged jungle. Thralls live in a tribal culture, composed of and organized into tribes. While the Thrall people are largely tribal, the Kingdom of Taz is a tribal kingdom ruled by a royal monarch, known as the Warrior King--or the Warrior Queen, as appropriate. All of the various Thrall tribes owe allegiance to the Warrior King or Warrior Queen. The Kingdom of Taz has developed some degree of urban civilization, and has several cities throughout the realm. The capital city of the Kingdom of Taz is the fortress-city of Tor. Many Thrall people live throughout the kingdom in fortified villages, embracing a simple agrarian lifestyle focused on farming, as well as hunting, fishing, and herding. Beyond such essentials the Thrall are a warrior people, whose primary occupation is warfare.

Ghandus comes from a large family, and has three brothers and five sisters in his immediate family, besides his parents. Ghandus's father, Vhandar, is an Artificer (Stone). Ghandus's mother, Sobah, is an Agriculturist (Farmer). Both of Ghandus's parents have served in the kingdom's army, and are veteran soldiers.

Ghandus has been serving in the Royal Army with distinction, having demonstrated loyalty, obedience, good judgment and leadership. Ghandus is also in excellent fighting condition, and is highly trained in weapons and martial combat. Ghandus has volunteered to being assigned in a special Explorer Company. The Explorer Companies are special units of Thrall warriors given the mission of exploring nearby regions of wilderness, identify potential enemies and threats, and also to seek out friendly tribes and peoples, and to pursue cultivating positive military and cultural relationships. Members of the Explorer Companies usually operate in small groups, and sometimes alone. Ghandus has been in the special Explorer Company for just over a year, and sends special reports to the Company Headquarters roughly every three months, detailing his experiences in the wilderness. Ghandus has been hiring himself out as a caravan guard for much of this time, gaining experience and knowledge traveling about in the region. In some of the local cities, Ghandus has embraced temporary assignments serving as private security to various merchants and nobles. Ghandus is always watchful for new opportunities and adventure.

Ghandus's Major Personality Traits

Personality Traits (Positive or Neutral)
Ghandus is fiercely loyal to his family, his friends, and his country.

Personality Traits (Negative)
Ghandus is often Quick-Tempered and prone to displays of violence.

Ghandus's General Personality

Ghandus is highly disciplined, and energetic and enthusiastic about almost everything in life. Even with exhausting or unpleasant tasks, Ghandus seems eager to jump into them with a relentless enthusiasm bordering on the masochistic. Ghandus has an aggressive and bold nature, and a tireless work ethic. Ghandus is forthright in his thoughts, and seemingly possesses little filter in speaking his mind. Ghandus often has a tendency to speak aloud what everyone around him may be thinking, but choose to remain quiet. Ghandus is encouraging towards his fellows, but has a penchant for indulging in the critical kind of motivational commentary, readily remarking on other's laziness, weakness, or lack of good discipline. While often appearing to be harsh and judgmental--which Ghandus proudly boasts of being--he is quick in defending his friends, women, the elderly, and the weak, rising forth like a storm-cloud in their defense. When relaxing and unwinding, Ghandus is a devoted hedonist, embracing dancing, music, great feasts, smoking, games, and all manner of festive entertainment. Ghandus eagerly joins festivities and partying, heedless of any appearance of being foolish or silly. Ghandus embraces every aspect of life with energy and passion.

Parents and Family
Both of Ghandus’s parents are alive and well. Vhandar, Ghandus's father, is 56 years old. Ghandus's mother, Sobah, is 52 years old. Vhandar served in the Royal Army, and then was an adventurer and mercenary for several years before becoming a professional stone artificer. Sobah served in the Royal Army, and then became an adventurer and mercenary for several years. After meeting Vhandar while adventuring, Vhandar and Sobah married and returned to their homeland in the jungles of Taz. Sobah grew up in a farming family, so she embraced being a farmer after her service in the Royal Army and years as an adventurer. Ghandus's parents are very proud of Ghandus's achievements, his relentless work ethic, and his honorable service in the Royal Army. Ghandus's relationship status with both of his parents is benevolent. Ghandus has three brothers and five sisters. Within the family, Ghandus is the youngest son, and also the last son born to Vhandar and Sobah. Ghandus has two younger sisters, Chaambee and Naambah. While at times during his youth Ghandus was spoiled by his parents, he has none the less been raised with strong discipline. Ghandus generally gets along very well with all of his siblings, of which he has cultivated a benevolent relationship with each of them. Some families are strained by dissension and jealousy, while others strive to build strong, positive relationships amongst all of the family members. Ghandus is passionate about all of his siblings, and even though he is the youngest son, Ghandus is fanatically loyal and protective of all of his siblings, eager to help them with anything. Vhandar and Sobah have taught all of their children the great importance of honour and loyalty, especially to the family.

Ghandus’s Current Age: 14

Siblings and Birth Order

Older Brother: Rhombar, Male Thrall, Artificer (Stone); Age (28);
Older Sister: Sariyaa, Female Thrall, Farmer; Age (25);
Older Sister: Jhumbee, Female Thrall, Adventurer; Age (23);
Older Brother: Harvaan, Male Thrall, Mercenary Warrior; Age (20);
Older Brother: Ghalbar, Male Thrall, Soldier in the Royal Army; Age (18);
Older Sister: Prandaa, Female Thrall, Soldier in the Royal Army; Age (16);
Ghandus, Male Thrall, Soldier in the Royal Army; Age (14)
Younger Sister: Chaambee, Female Thrall, Traveling Performer (Dancer); Age (12);
Younger Sister: Naambah, Female Thrall, Hunter; Age (10).

Expanded Sibling Notes

Rhombar, Male Thrall; Artificer (Stone); Age (28). Older Brother, and eldest Son of the family.
Sariyaa, Female Thrall; Farmer; Age (25)
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Hunting and Fishing, Literacy, Haggling. Bonus Skill: Artificer (Stone)
Attributes: Intelligence 0, Will +2, Dexterity +1, Strength +4, Constitution +4, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: Intelligence +3 (Changes Intelligence from -3 to 0), Dexterity -1 (Changes Dexterity from +2 to +1).

Sariyaa, Female Thrall; Agriculturist (Farmer); Age (25). Older Sister, and eldest Daughter of the family.
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Literacy, Cooking, Healer. Bonus Skill: Agriculturist (Farmer)
Attributes: Intelligence -3, Will +3, Dexterity +2, Strength +3, Constitution +4, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: Perception +1, Will +1 (Changes Will from +2 to +3), Charisma +1, -1 Strength (Changes Strength to +3)

Jhumbee, Female Thrall; Adventurer; Age (23). Older Sister
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Hunting and Fishing, Cooking, Healer. Bonus Skill: Literacy
Attributes: Intelligence -3, Will +2, Dexterity +2, Strength +4, Constitution +3, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: Perception +1, Charisma +2, Constitution -1 (Changes Constitution from +4 to +3)

Harvaan, Male Thrall; Mercenary Warrior; Age (20). Older Brother
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Hunting and Fishing, Literacy, Swimming. Bonus Skill: Wilderness Survival
Attributes: Intelligence -2, Will +2, Dexterity +2, Strength +4, Constitution +3, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: Perception +1, Charisma +1, -1 Constitution (Changes Constitution from +4 to +3), Intelligence +1 (Changes Intelligence from -3 to -2).

Ghalbar, Male Thrall; Soldier in the Royal Army; Age (18). Older Brother
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Hunting and Fishing, Literacy, Riding. Bonus Skill: Mounted Combat
Attributes: Intelligence -2, Will +2, Dexterity +2, Strength +4, Constitution +3, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: Perception +1, Charisma +1, -1 Constitution (Changes Constitution from +4 to +3), +1 Intelligence (Changes Intelligence from -3 to -2).

Prandaa, Female Thrall; Soldier in the Royal Army; Age (16). Older Sister
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Hunting and Fishing, Cooking, Literacy. Bonus Skill: Administrator
Attributes: Intelligence -3, Will +2, Dexterity +2, Strength +3, Constitution +4, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: Perception +1, Charisma +2, -1 Strength (Changes Strength to +3)

Chaambee, Female Thrall; Traveling Performer (Dancer); Age (12). Younger Sister
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Literacy, Cooking, Healer. Bonus Skill: Traveling Performer (Dancer)
Attributes: Intelligence -3, Will +2, Dexterity +3, Strength +3, Constitution +4, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: Dexterity +1, (Changes Dexterity from +2 to +3), Charisma +2, -1 Strength (Changes Strength to +3)

Naambah, Female Thrall, Hunter; Age (10). Younger Sister
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Literacy, Hunting and Fishing, Cooking. Bonus Skill: Agriculturist (Farmer)
Attributes: Intelligence -3, Will +2, Dexterity +2, Strength +3, Constitution +4, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: Perception +2, Charisma +1, -1 Strength (Changes Strength to +3)


Thralls are considered to reach adult status upon reaching the age of 8 years old.

Additional Associates

Childhood Friend:
Zharben Male Thrall, Soldier in the Royal Army; Age (15).
Zharben is a professional soldier, like Ghandus. Zharben has served in the Infantry as Ghandus has, but has also been trained as an Engineer. Zharben's father is an Artificer (Stone) and has passed a love for stone and craftsmanship down to his son, Zharben. Zharben has been especially passionate about the necessity and wisdom of building a vast network of stone roads, highways, and bridges throughout the Kingdom. Zharben also embraces visions of establishing several large dams and sophisticated reservoirs throughout the Kingdom, providing controlled supply of fresh water for enhancing the growing Thrall farming industry, but also to facilitate the development of a system of canals, allowing transport by barge and ship throughout the Kingdom. Zharben is originally from the village of Naalembi, which is just a few miles to the south of the village of Sembu. Zharben and Ghandus became friends while children, before they joined the army. Zharben's father being a artificer of stone, like Ghandus's father, gave the two more common experiences. Zharben's family and Ghandus's family have been close friends for many years. After joining the Royal Army together, the two maintained a close friendship even as they were sometimes in different army units. During their third year in the army, the two friends were in the same cavalry unit for training with the Mangonel Lizards. During the long months of Mangonel training, Zharben and Ghandus would gather some buddies from their unit in their off time and visit local taverns and dance halls. Besides spending far too much time drinking, gambling, and mixing with the women in the dance halls, Ghandus and Zharben would also eagerly attend festive parties held by nearby traveling caravans, drinking and dancing around great bonfires, with drums and lyres playing all about. After being together in the Mangonel unit together for a year, Ghandus and Zharben are now in different companies, with Ghandus being in an Explorer Company while Zharben is serving in an Engineering Company.
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Agriculturist (Farmer), Hunting and Fishing, Literacy. Bonus Skill: Engineer
Attributes: Intelligence -1, Will +2, Dexterity +2, Strength +4, Constitution +3, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: -1 Constitution (Changes Constitution to +3), +1 Charisma, +2 Intelligence (Changes Intelligence to -1)

Personal Friend:
Mardaan Male Thrall, Merchant; Age (20).
Mardaan has devoted his studies to business, finance, and trade, and has been trained as a merchant. Mardaan maintains that the Kingdom needs an increasingly robust and sophisticated economy so as to encourage increasing expansion, growth, and prosperity. Mardaan is currently involved in developing Counting Houses and land development efforts, having established a foundational land development company. Mardaan's land development company embraces several disciplines, resource management, and business development. Mardaan is involved in developing lumber and wood harvesting businesses, metal forges, stone foundries, as well as the expansion and growth of different groups of animals throughout the Kingdom, providing additional food supply, as well as a constant supply of meat animals, and animals for labour and warfare. Mardaan is originally from the city of Tor, which is the capital city of the Kingdom of Taz. Mardaan originally met Ghandus when Mardaan was traveling in a caravan on the frontier, where the caravan was attacked by marauding bandits. During the encounter, Ghandus was leading a cavalry patrol, mounted on Manganell Lizards, and heroically intervened, killing many of the bandits. In the process, Ghandus saved Mardaan's life, as well as the life of Mardaan's younger sister, Chaandu. This encounter occurred some two years ago, when Ghandus had been in the army for about two years. Ghandus and Mardaan have been strong friends ever since. Chaandu was 13 years old when she was saved by Ghandus from the bandits. In the two years since, Chaandu has remained in contact with Ghandus, gradually developing a friendship. Mardaan sees Ghandus often, as he visits the area for business on a regular basis.
Background: City-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Haggling, Literacy, Administrator. Bonus Skill: Merchant
Attributes: Intelligence 0, Will +2, Dexterity +2, Strength +4, Constitution +3, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: -1 Constitution (Changes Constitution from +4 to +3), +3 Intelligence (Changes Intelligence from -3 to 0)

Personal Friend:
Jhawaanda Female Thrall, Adventurer; Age (14).
Jhawaanda is originally from the village of Sembu. Jhawaanda's father is a professional Carpenter, while her mother is a simple farm girl. Jhawaanda joined the Royal Army when she was 9 years old, and served for 4 years. Jhawaanda met Ghandus while the two of them were in the same Infantry Company for two years, before Jhawaanda was transferred to an Archery Company. Jhawaanda kept in contact with Ghandus during her remaining two years in the army. Jhawaanda has since mustered out of the regiment as an honored veteran. Since her time in the army, Jhawaanda has been working as a mercenary and adventurer. In addition, Jhawaanda has embraced a passion for dancing, and has traveled about several villages and cities in the region working at taverns and dance halls as a professional dancer. Jhawaanda is a talented dancer, and is especially skilled in performing a variety of traditional Thrall tribal dances. Jhawaanda frequently sends Ghandus letters and packages of goodies, as well as keeping informed of where she is located at, as well as where Ghandus is stationed at.
Background: Village-Dweller
Skills: Primary Combat, Mounted Combat, Weaponless Combat, Hunting and Fishing, Cooking, Healer. Bonus Skill: Traveling Performer (Dancer)
Attributes: Intelligence -3, Will +2, Dexterity +2, Strength +3, Constitution +4, Speed +1
Attribute Adjustments: Perception +1, Charisma +2, -1 Strength (Changes Strength to +3)

Ghandus's Mentor

Aggaamnu Male Thrall. Age (26). Soldier of the Royal Army. Captain.

Aggaamnu was Ghandus's Company Commander while Ghandus served in an infantry company. Captain Aggaamnu recommended Ghandus to be assigned to a special Explorer Company, reasoning that such an assignment would expand and sharpen Ghandus's experience and knowledge. Captain Aggaamnu has known Ghandus since he signed up for the army, when he was 9 years old. Captain Aggaamnu has trained Ghandus for four years, ensuring that Ghandus is highly trained for any mission. Aggaamnu supervised Ghandus in his weapons and armour training, martial arts, mounted combat, and all aspects of military discipline, skills, and knowledge. While Ghandus has gone onward to an assignment with an Explorer Company, Ghandus remains in close contact with his old commanding officer, sending him letters and packages on a regular basis. Beyond specific training as a professional soldier and a skilled warrior in all regards, Captain Aggaamnu took particular interest in encouraging Ghandus to pursue excellence and success in all areas of life, and to strive to be the best that he can be with anything he sets his mind to accomplishing. Captain Aggaamnu has a Benevolent and very positive relationship with Ghandus, continuing to not only serve as an army officer, a professional instructor and military superior--but also as a beloved and cherished mentor, advisor, and friend.

Finances
Base Finances (100 Gold Lumens)
Expenses: (58 Gold; 166 Silver; and 90 Copper;
Available Funds: 38 Gold Lumens and 34 Silver)

Gear and Supplies

50-ft. Coil of Rope (50 Copper); Backpack (2 Gold Lumen); Bedroll (1 Silver); Flask (Iron, 1 Pint; 1 Silver); Coin Purse (50 Coin capacity; 1 Silver); Belt Pouch (100 Coin Capacity; 2 Silver); Shoulder Pouch (500 Coin Capacity; 1 Gold Lumen); Hide Sack (4); (1500 Coin Capacity, each; 4 Silver); Sharpening Stone (5 Copper); Spade (1 Silver); Mallet (1 Silver); Crowbar (2 Silver); Saw (1 Silver); Grapnel (2 Silver); Oil Cloth (20-ft; 20 Copper); Net (Fishing/Throwing; 1 Silver); Torches (Burns for 4 hours each; 1 Copper each; 10 Torches); Waterskin (Holds 2 Gallons; 5 Silver); Tinderbox (5 Silver); Mandalan Tea (Keg; 100 Silver); Barrel of Tazian Fire Ale (1-Gallon Barrel; 1 Silver); Tunic/Breeches/Vest (Cloth; Set of 3; 1 Gold Lumen each); Boots (Leather; 10 Gold Lumen); Hat (Black, Broad-Brimmed; Slightly Peaked; 5 Copper); Leather Harness (1 Gold Lumen); Gloves (Hide; 1 Silver); Iron Shield (20 Gold Lumen); Shortbow (Horn; 1d8 Damage; Range 150-ft.; 5 Gold Lumen); Quiver (2 Quivers; Leather, Each quiver holds 20 Arrows; 20 Silver); Dagger (1d6 Damage; 1 Gold Lumen); Spear (1d8 Damage; 1 Gold Lumen); Hand Axe (1d6 Damage; 5 Silver); Road Rations (6 weeks supply; 6 Gold Lumen Total)

Companions and Mounts

Jhaadhu--Bright Lime Green Mangonel Lizard

Jhaadhu is a highly-trained Mangonel Lizard, and fearless in combat. Jhaadhu is equipped with the standard war saddle, harness, and equipment that all Royal Army Mangonel Lizards are equipped with.


How does that sound as a framework?

Semper Fidelis,

SHARK
« Last Edit: July 23, 2020, 03:52:07 PM by SHARK »
"It is the Marine Corps that will strip away the façade so easily confused with self. It is the Corps that will offer the pain needed to buy the truth. And at last, each will own the privilege of looking inside himself  to discover what truly resides there. Comfort is an illusion. A false security b

Mordred Pendragon

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #10 on: July 17, 2020, 02:15:42 PM »
I'm really excited for this one. Lemme think of a good character, probably thinking of some kind of Amazonian fighter chick, just need to refine the concept a bit.
Sic Semper Tyrannis

Opaopajr

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #11 on: July 17, 2020, 04:31:08 PM »
Sounds very good, Shark! Should be able to incoporate a Thrall nearly anywhere on Talislanta continent.

Doc Sammy, check out the Danuvian battle women. Seems to scratch your amazonian itch and will be from the starting scope I choose.

As for deciding that place... I choose you, the Wilderlands! (Specifically around town of Akmir, between the Desert Wastes and The Barrens, between distant Danuvia & Djaffa.)

The Wilderlands has a lot of scantily clad peoples mixed with flowy robes peoples, and a mix of alien, ruined, and decadent city-states all around. An excuse to start you in Mad Max Murderhobo-land and shuffle you around various 'discotheques' once you are 'dressed to kill' as it were.

Next, Campaign Purpose & Party Cohesion.

Campaign purpose is partying, violence, & vanity. Think "75%+ Off!" sales before a Friday night 3-day-weekend bender. There's no real "end game" in terms of leveling up, saving the world, or defeating a Big Bad Evil Guy; it's about 'killing it' at the clubs and being the best looking while doing it. Yeah, it's gonna be a shallow Heavy Metal magazine world with a bitchin' dancefloor soundtrack. :p

Party Cohesion... well, try not to kill each other, unless you are both wearing the same thing at a big event. :o I assume you will all be self-motivated to go forth, kill things, and take their prettiest stuff. :D But given I won't be doing anything like X Cards, speak now if you have certain delicate sensibilities we need to wrap in foam padding.

As for me, I will try to fade-to-black any excesses into NC-17/XXX, just as a courtesy to this website and this being a publicly viewable game. But... I am OK with riding that rated-R into fade-to-black edge. :) What you do for those shoes is mostly a story I am fine letting you tell. :p

Any other questions before we start chargen?
« Last Edit: July 17, 2020, 04:33:11 PM by Opaopajr »
Just make your fuckin' guy and roll the dice, you pricks. Focus on what's interesting, not what gives you the biggest randomly generated virtual penis.  -- J Arcane
 
You know, people keep comparing non-TSR D&D to deck-building in Magic: the Gathering. But maybe it's more like Katamari Damacy. You keep sticking shit on your characters until they are big enough to be a star.
-- talysman

SHARK

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #12 on: July 17, 2020, 08:58:02 PM »
Greetings!

Yes, my friend. What are the nearby cities and towns? What are their names? Can you provide a prospectus on each of them, with political climate, cultural traits, mercantile traditions, and most prominent religions?

Also some overviews of the local wilderness and rural peoples, and any opposition factions or tribes. Their religions, culture, and politics.

Semper Fidelis,

SHARK
"It is the Marine Corps that will strip away the façade so easily confused with self. It is the Corps that will offer the pain needed to buy the truth. And at last, each will own the privilege of looking inside himself  to discover what truly resides there. Comfort is an illusion. A false security b

Mordred Pendragon

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #13 on: July 17, 2020, 09:42:13 PM »
I'm eager for this. I know jack shit about Talislanta, mechanically or setting-wise, but I will look into getting the rules and setting info I need to know ASAP
Sic Semper Tyrannis

Opaopajr

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"Do the Shuffle!": a Talislanta Sword & Planet Disco Fantasia
« Reply #14 on: July 18, 2020, 12:21:41 AM »
Of course!  :)

Talislanta 2e Worldbook (the scholar looking guy cover). "The Wilderlands of Zaran" Chapter, pages 32 thru 43.

Should answer most of your setting questions. Further, I will be playing faster and looser than usual, so do not overthink the setting politics & culture too much. This won't be a social studies quiz so much as a fun romp through Heavy Metal Hurlant comic pages (yes Doc Sammy, restrain the manga tropes and play to the euro-comix ones :p).

That should cut most RPG reading to be location conversant down to 10 pages, plus system mechanics... which we'll mostly stumble along with some veteran help. :)
Just make your fuckin' guy and roll the dice, you pricks. Focus on what's interesting, not what gives you the biggest randomly generated virtual penis.  -- J Arcane
 
You know, people keep comparing non-TSR D&D to deck-building in Magic: the Gathering. But maybe it's more like Katamari Damacy. You keep sticking shit on your characters until they are big enough to be a star.
-- talysman