Layonara - User contributions [en]

Dorand: Temples

2019-08-28T18:26:59Z

Ke Koa:

<div class="JUSTIFY">

There is but one known official temple to [[Dorand]]: the magnificent Citadel at Lyn. For most, however, it is visited only a few times a year.

The [[Way of the Hammer]] teaches that an instrument does not need a fancy forge so long as the work is done and as such, most worshippers of Lord Forge say their prayers while crafting wherever they are. Small shrines are therefore found in smithies and crafting houses across the world, two of the more notable are in [[Brenuth]] and in the halls of the [[Runic Anvil]] underneath [[Mount Norand]] on [[Dregar]].

===== <span style="font-size:14px;">Brenuth Forge</span> =====

Built into the snowy mountainside of the Brech Mountains on [[Mistone]], this first, oldest home of Dorand's followers was not originally intended as a shrine. Dorand's church, loosely organized at the beginning, had a large number of dwarves in Brech. As Brenuth is in a basin, the smoke from the forges would hang low across the valley and make the air hard to breathe. Finally, the citizens of Brenuth declared enough and the Converge of 790 was called.

The dwarves discussed the situation and it was decided to move the main forge to a separate location in an abandoned natural cave nearby. Slowly, this local forge became known for the amazing [[strength]] and quality of their armors, weapons, and shields. As word spread, other Dorandites migrated to Brenuth to learn the techniques and apprentice themselves, and over time the Anvil formed. Now the Forge nestles in the side of the Peaks and is home to some of the finest artisans on [[Layonara]].

===== <span style="font-size:14px;">The Citadel at Lyn</span> =====

Founded by Baron Ta'karsh Blacklung, the first and only [[human]] [[High Hammer]] of Dorand, the Citadel at Lyn was his gift to his church. Due to its impressive size, it has become the temple of Dorand, a place for both the creation of and the display of items crafted by generations of Dorandites. The Baron had the presence of mind to include meeting halls large enough to hold the Temperings as well. Since its founding in the 1300s, the Citadel has become the largest structure devoted to Dorand in the world.

The Citadel is tunneled with huge chambers opening up off the narrow routes. The walls are smoothed, carved, and decorated by hundreds of [[stone]] cutters with weapons racks and armor displays lining most halls (and narrowing them further) displaying centuries of crafting. In the chambers, tapestries, rugs, leathers, and finely carved [[furniture]] further the display. What is notable is that each item'mugs, silverware, chairs, sconces, glassware, armors, even the engraved walls'has a purpose. This, for most, is what separates [[Ilsare]] from Dorand and why Dorand looks at Ilsare with such disdain. While Lady Muse enjoys art for art's sake, Lord Forge demands that an item be not only well-made but also useful, an object to be admired as it is fulfilling its function.
</div>

Katia: Temples

2019-08-28T18:25:00Z

Ke Koa:

<div class="hr">
</div>
Temples to [[Katia]] are not found in cities. The majority are groves secreted away deep in the forests. Temples to Katia often do not appear as anything more then a copse of trees or a naturally occurring ring of trees. However, the occasional shrine can be found anywhere since the spirit of Katia is not only confined to the forest. Atop mountains, in moors, deserts, even a glacier have been home to small shrines and tribal temples. However, most Katian followers will tell you the true temple to Katia is within the heart and soul of her followers. Simply speak your words to her and she will hear you. Holding to her dogma and keeping the cycle balanced as well as the self, carries far more weight than the building of such temples or shrines or other material expressions of faith.
Many small collectives that follow Katia even shun the crafting of such places, choosing instead to simply find beautiful places of the world, naturally occurring, to recite their prayers or perform their ceremonies such as weddings or funerals.

Katia: Temples

2019-08-28T18:24:45Z

Ke Koa:

Deliar: Sects

2019-04-04T04:15:29Z

Ke Koa:

<div>

===== Griffon Traders =====

Originating from the city of [[Port Hempstead]], a group of traders from the merchant guilds were constantly strained by the severe taxations the city presented and decided to start a trading group that would make an effort to donate their dividends in city charity and gain taxing grants. The idea of not taking all the gains into their own pockets, seemingly unheard of by most merchants, was so appreciated by the local Deliarite clergy that they decided to join their ranks and support their cause in any way. Since then, the [[Griffon]] Traders have grown to become a society of craftsmen and merchants who work together to fund infrastructures for the cities around southwestern [[Mistone]] and hopefully eventually extending to the rest of the continent and beyond. They deploy analysts and architects to examine the conditions of [[locales]] around the continent. When one of them discovers a place needing some economical help, they integrate it into their programs. The Griffon Traders have teachers, clergy, a network of supplies, and many so-called adventurers within their ranks to aid in the support of this cause.

Many do not agree with their methods, particularly those who were previously benefiting from the lesser comforts of those that are being helped and that this entity always comes attached with the teachings of the Lucky Wanderer makes many within the nobility and controlling forces very uncomfortable. Although the Griffon Traders do not truly wish to be the cause of conflict, as they are devout to [[Deliar]], they will not stand before the hands of oppression.

===== The Undiscovered Path =====

This sect of the Deliarite followers'comprised mainly of clergy who focus on the exploration of new opportunities around the world, but with many trackers, [[rangers]], and the occasional unbound [[rogue]] or [[bard]] within their ranks'specializes in the threading of new locations for trade and exchange to occur. The love of finding new treasures in the unknown is enough to make them consider going into the most inhospitable places and attempt to find feasible means of trade and perhaps a treasure or two. The Undiscovered Path promotes freedom before anything else and their ranks are somewhat colorful. A fact that speaks greatly of how unique they are when considering that the normal clergy of Deliar are mainly comprised of already colorful halflings. Many esoteric philosophers or self-acclaimed heroes make up their ranks and while many things may seem unexpected when dealing with a member of this sect, one thing that is never lacking is the guaranteed amusement or entertainment involved in their daily routines.
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Katia

2019-03-26T04:23:51Z

Ke Koa:

[[File:Katia-Portrait.jpg|thumb]]
"We are one with [[Layonara]] for Layonara is Nature. Without Nature there is no Layonara. All [[races]], all living creatures lend their time to Nature. Nurture, protect and defend Nature. Oppose those who seek to unbalance it. While we preserve and protect life, give credence that in the Great Cycle of Life, [[death]] also has its place."

Katians believe there is a place for most things within the great cycle and celebrate how each may find his or her path. Fires rejuvenate the lands. Water purifies the soil. Wind carries away excess and delivers new seeds from new places. Earth bears witness and supports all we do. People come in many varieties as well, including a mixture of these traits and more. The balanced path brings a better Layonara and an enriched life. While the great cycle's needs change and revolve, there are a few static concepts shared by most Katian followers. Katia's principles are to preserve and protect the wild places and nurture the care for Layonara within others. Katia's worshipers tend to interpret the needs of each of these principles a little differently in each place. A large factor in the definition of her dogma is in its flexibility. Doing what needs be done to protect, balance, and nurture. The paths that are taken vary in places as her followers tend to operate alone or in small isolated groups or families. Many see themselves as defenders of the wild places; others find their life's work in the grander scale of balancing the great cycle.

Katian dogma tends toward neutrality rather then good or [[evil]], laws or chaos. The focus is centered more on a personal connection to Katia and how the self affects the world around them. Remaining true to the self and the great cycle is most paramount. Restoring balance in nature, people, and one's self are the goals of most Katians. How that is done is based on personal philosophy, the teachings of their home, and which path they follow in life. If anything would upset the balance, those actions would be considered a sin. Generally speaking, Katians find nothing more upsetting then the uncaring clearing of the forest to make way for agricultural fields. The aggressive expansion of cities into the wild lands also finds its place within the discussions of elders, attempting to find a way to [[slow]] or stop these atrocities to nature. Those who heartlessly cut down trees for use of their lumber quickly find themselves on the punishing end of a Katian's tree-given staff.

* Aliases: Mother Nature, [[The Cruel Mother]], She Who Watches
* Race: [[Human]]
* Worshippers: Mostly humans.
* Governs: Nature, Forests, Plants, Rebirth
* [[Mantras]]: Natural, Idealistic, Rural, Humble

Katia

2019-03-26T04:23:20Z

Ke Koa:

[[File:Katia-Portrait.jpg|thumb]]
''"We are one with [[Layonara]] for Layonara is Nature. Without Nature there is no Layonara. All [[races]], all living creatures lend their time to Nature. Nurture, protect and defend Nature. Oppose those who seek to unbalance it. While we preserve and protect life, give credence that in the Great Cycle of Life, [[death]] also has its place."''

Katians believe there is a place for most things within the great cycle and celebrate how each may find his or her path. Fires rejuvenate the lands. Water purifies the soil. Wind carries away excess and delivers new seeds from new places. Earth bears witness and supports all we do. People come in many varieties as well, including a mixture of these traits and more. The balanced path brings a better Layonara and an enriched life. While the great cycle's needs change and revolve, there are a few static concepts shared by most Katian followers. Katia's principles are to preserve and protect the wild places and nurture the care for Layonara within others. Katia's worshipers tend to interpret the needs of each of these principles a little differently in each place. A large factor in the definition of her dogma is in its flexibility. Doing what needs be done to protect, balance, and nurture. The paths that are taken vary in places as her followers tend to operate alone or in small isolated groups or families. Many see themselves as defenders of the wild places; others find their life's work in the grander scale of balancing the great cycle.

Katian dogma tends toward neutrality rather then good or [[evil]], laws or chaos. The focus is centered more on a personal connection to Katia and how the self affects the world around them. Remaining true to the self and the great cycle is most paramount. Restoring balance in nature, people, and one's self are the goals of most Katians. How that is done is based on personal philosophy, the teachings of their home, and which path they follow in life. If anything would upset the balance, those actions would be considered a sin. Generally speaking, Katians find nothing more upsetting then the uncaring clearing of the forest to make way for agricultural fields. The aggressive expansion of cities into the wild lands also finds its place within the discussions of elders, attempting to find a way to [[slow]] or stop these atrocities to nature. Those who heartlessly cut down trees for use of their lumber quickly find themselves on the punishing end of a Katian's tree-given staff.

* Aliases: Mother Nature, [[The Cruel Mother]], She Who Watches
* Race: [[Human]]
* Worshippers: Mostly humans.
* Governs: Nature, Forests, Plants, Rebirth
* [[Mantras]]: Natural, Idealistic, Rural, Humble

File:Katia.jpg

2019-03-26T03:53:39Z

Ke Koa:

Katia Deity

Katia

2019-03-23T23:29:51Z

Ke Koa:

<div class="hr">
[[File:Katia.jpg|thumb]]
quot;We are one with [[Layonara]] for Layonara is Nature. Without Nature there is no Layonara. All [[races]], all living creatures lend their time to Nature. Nurture, protect and defend Nature. Oppose those who seek to unbalance it. While we preserve and protect life, give credence that in the Great Cycle of Life, [[death]] also has its place."

Katians believe there is a place for most things within the great cycle and celebrate how each may find his or her path. Fires rejuvenate the lands. Water purifies the soil. Wind carries away excess and delivers new seeds from new places. Earth bears witness and supports all we do. People come in many varieties as well, including a mixture of these traits and more. The balanced path brings a better Layonara and an enriched life. While the great cycle's needs change and revolve, there are a few static concepts shared by most Katian followers. Katia's principles are to preserve and protect the wild places and nurture the care for Layonara within others. Katia's worshipers tend to interpret the needs of each of these principles a little differently in each place. A large factor in the definition of her dogma is in its flexibility. Doing what needs be done to protect, balance, and nurture. The paths that are taken vary in places as her followers tend to operate alone or in small isolated groups or families. Many see themselves as defenders of the wild places; others find their life's work in the grander scale of balancing the great cycle.

Katian dogma tends toward neutrality rather then good or [[evil]], laws or chaos. The focus is centered more on a personal connection to Katia and how the self affects the world around them. Remaining true to the self and the great cycle is most paramount. Restoring balance in nature, people, and one's self are the goals of most Katians. How that is done is based on personal philosophy, the teachings of their home, and which path they follow in life. If anything would upset the balance, those actions would be considered a sin. Generally speaking, Katians find nothing more upsetting then the uncaring clearing of the forest to make way for agricultural fields. The aggressive expansion of cities into the wild lands also finds its place within the discussions of elders, attempting to find a way to [[slow]] or stop these atrocities to nature. Those who heartlessly cut down trees for use of their lumber quickly find themselves on the punishing end of a Katian's tree-given staff.

</div>
* Aliases: Mother Nature, [[The Cruel Mother]], She Who Watches
* Race: [[Human]]
* Worshippers: Mostly humans.
* Governs: Nature, Forests, Plants, Rebirth
* [[Mantras]]: Natural, Idealistic, Rural, Humble

File:Katia-Portrait.jpg

2019-03-23T23:29:22Z

Ke Koa:

Katia Deity

Branderback: Prayers and Holy Days

2019-03-23T07:12:19Z

Ke Koa:

<div>

===== Prayers =====

<div>

While getting spells:<br />
''"Let my acts be hidden in the shadows of the night, so that I may gain that which is rightfully mine."''

</div>
<div>

<br />
When doing something fishy:<br />
''"I pray that wealth belong to the greedy and careless, so that I may take from them what is rightfully mine."''

</div>
===== <br />
Holy Days =====

<ul>
<li>Winter Solstice
<div>

The only official holy day to [[Branderback]] is the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year. Typically, this night is for heists and malfeasance of all kinds, but some cities are catching wind of this and putting extra guards and special precautions out to prevent it. Therefore, a successful robbery, assassination, mugging, or other act dear to the the Greedy Hound brings special esteem on this night.

</div></li></ul>

<ul>
<li>Many-Faced Holy Day
<div>

Followers of the Many-Faced also worship the day of Sharina's [[death]], Decilar 23, believed to be the day of her ascendance. They worship her by getting a tattoo or piercing in her name.
</div></li></ul>
</div>

Mantras

2019-03-23T07:09:22Z

Ke Koa:

<div style="text-align: justify;">

Each deity has a set of mantras which define their [[core]] values, their personality, thoughts, desires, and actions. Mantras are paired, so if one adheres to a particular mantra, one will be opposed to the other, for example, chaotic and ordered. There are 18 mantra pairs.

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<div style="text-align: justify;">

</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">

<span style="line-height: 1.63em;">One thing to keep in mind regarding these mantras and how they relate to a deity or character is how certain mantras would work in conjunction with others. For example, if you are cruel and selfish, then you would be sadistic. However, if you are cruel and selfless, then you would be masochistic. If you are ordered and active, then you would be the type of person to try to regulate others. However, if you are ordered and passive, you would be the kind of person to allow authority figures to regulate you. Chaos and active would be rebellious whereas chaos and passive would be flighty.</span>

</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">

</div>
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Note:

</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">

This system can be roughly conceptualized as an advancement upon the idea of alignment. Like alignment, mantras are intended as indicators of character (or deity) personalities and thus guides for role-playing a character in meaningful ways. Mantras, however, enable us to integrate such considerations into our game systems far more effectively than alignment. Thus, mantras go far beyond abstract representations of characters' (or deity's) outlook and ethics, or lack thereof.

</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">

</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">

The mantra system was conceived for the future. It is not applicable for NWN, although it gives players insight into the core ideals of each deity.

</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Mantra
! Opposing
|-
| Preserving
| Destructive
|-
| Ordered
| Chaotic
|-
| Caring
| Cruel
|-
| Selfless
| Selfish
|-
| Belligerent
| Peaceful
|-
| Vengeful
| Forgiving
|-
| Honest
| Deceptive
|-
| Materialistic
| Idealistic
|-
| Cerebral
| Physical
|-
| Scholarly
| Intuitive
|-
| Dramatic
| Stoic
|-
| Active
| Passive
|-
| Natural
| Technological
|-
| Urban
| Rural
|-
| Playful
| Serious
|-
| Nomadic
| Sedentary
|-
| Arrogant
| Humble
|-
| Public
| Private
|}

<div>

</div>

Main Page

2019-03-20T23:21:32Z

Ke Koa:

== Getting started ==
See the [[Beginners Guide to Layonara]]

Read the [[NWN Player Rules]]

The [[:Category:NWN Spells|Encyclopedia of Spells]] for [[Layonara]].

Using the [[Craftable Natural Resources]] system

Deities

2019-03-20T23:20:33Z

Ke Koa:

Religion plays an important part in [[Layonara]]'s societies. Across the world of Layonara, [[races]] pay homage to many deities with different rituals and customs. The deities mentioned here are the most widely known and influential. The world is filled with shrines to these deities and the number of temples is far less because of the cost and effort required for temples. The deities are divided into pantheons along racial lines. The race with which the religion originated or where it has the deepest support is indicated by its pantheon. However, this is an artificial division. It is possible for an individual to worship a deity from a different race's pantheon and in some cases to actually be clergy of that deity. There are a few deities with a small amount of power, relatively unknown deities, that only grant limited spells or spells of limited power; these will have to be found in the game through roleplaying. There will be times when you may encounter individuals who follow deities that are not included in these pages.

== List of Known Deities ==
* [[Aeridin]], the Lifegiver, Elven God of Healing.
* [[Aragen]], the Wise God, [[human|Human]] God of Knowledge.
* [[Az'atta]], the Redemptress, Dark Elf Goddess of Redemption.
* [[Baraeon Ca'duz]], the [[Prince of Hate]], Dark Elf God of Vengeance.
* [[Beryl]], [[Her Perfection]], Deep [[gnome|Gnome]] Mother Goddess and Goddess of Jewelry
* [[Branderback]], the Greedy Hound, [[halfling|Halfling]] God of Thieves.
* [[Corath]], the Lord Manipulator, Human God of Corruption.
* [[Deliar]], the Merchant of Fate, Halfing God of Merchants and Luck.
* [[Dorand]], the Master of Crafts, Dwarven God of Crafting.
* [[Folian S'pae]], the [[Prince of Wolves]], Elven God of The Wilderness and Wolves.
* [[Goran]], the Father Invention, Gnomish God of Invention.
* [[Grand]], the Destroyer of Dwarves, Orcish God of Mining and Smithing.
* [[Grannoch]], the Mother of Giants, Giant Goddess of The Elements.
* [[Ilsare]], the [[Heartsong]], Elven Goddess of Art and Love.
* [[Katia]], Mother Nature, Human Goddess of Nature.
* [[Kithairien]], the Falcon, Elven God of The Hunt and Freedom.
* [[Lucinda]], the Star's Mage, Human Goddess of Magic
* [[Mist]], Lady [[Doom]], Human Goddess of Storms and Seas.
* [[Prunilla]], Lady Comfort, Halfling Goddess of Food and Agriculture.
* [[Pyrtechon]], the Destroyer, [[dragon|Dragon]] God of [[destruction|Destruction]] and Chaos.
* [[Rofirein]], the Lord Protector, Dragon God of Law and Order.
* [[Shadon]], the Trickster, Gnome God of Trickery.
* [[Shindaleria]], Mother Ocean, Elven Goddess of The Ocean.
* [[Sulterio]], the Brooding One, Deep [[dwarf|Dwarf]] God of Mining and [[poison|Poison]].
* [[Toran]], the Great Leader. Human God of Honor, Truth and Righteousness
* [[Vierdri'ira]], Mother of [[Darkness]], Dark Elf Goddess of Darkness.
* [[Vorax]], the Father of Battle, Dwarven God of Battle.
* [[Xeen]], Mistress of Pleasure and Pain, Human Goddess of Pleasure and Wine.

Deities

2019-03-20T20:23:16Z

Ke Koa:

Religion plays an important part in [[Layonara]]'s societies. Across the world of Layonara, [[races]] pay homage to many deities with different rituals and customs. The deities mentioned here are the most widely known and influential. The world is filled with shrines to these deities and the number of temples is far less because of the cost and effort required for temples. The deities are divided into pantheons along racial lines. The race with which the religion originated or where it has the deepest support is indicated by its pantheon. However, this is an artificial division. It is possible for an individual to worship a deity from a different race's pantheon and in some cases to actually be clergy of that deity. There are a few deities with a small amount of power, relatively unknown deities, that only grant limited spells or spells of limited power; these will have to be found in the game through roleplaying. There will be times when you may encounter individuals who follow deities that are not included in these pages.

== List of Known Deities ==
* [[Aeridin]], the Lifegiver, Elven God of Healing.
* [[Aragen]], the Wise God, [[human]] God of Knowledge.
* [[Az'atta]], the Redemptress, Dark Elf Goddess of Redemption.
* [[Baraeon Ca'duz]], the [[Prince of Hate]], Dark Elf God of Vengeance.
* [[Beryl]], [[Her Perfection]], Deep [[gnome]] Mother Goddess and Goddess of Jewelry
* [[Branderback]], the Greedy Hound, [[halfling|Halfling]] God of Thieves.
* [[Corath]], the Lord Manipulator, human god of corruption.
* [[Deliar]], the Merchant of Fate, halfing god of merchants and luck.
* [[Dorand]], the Master of Crafts, dwarven god of crafting.
* [[Folian S'pae]], the [[Prince of Wolves]], elven god of the wilderness and wolves.
* [[Goran]], the Father Invention, gnomish god of invention.
* [[Grand]], the Destroyer of Dwarves, orcish god of mining and smithing.
* [[Grannoch]], the Mother of Giants, giant goddess of the elements.
* [[Ilsare]], the [[Heartsong]], elven goddess of art and love.
* [[Katia]], Mother Nature, human goddess of nature.
* [[Kithairien]], the Falcon, elven god of the hunt and freedom.
* [[Lucinda]], the Star's Mage, human goddess of magic
* [[Mist]], Lady [[Doom]], human goddess of storms and seas.
* [[Prunilla]], Lady Comfort, halfling goddess of food and agriculture.
* [[Pyrtechon]], the Destroyer, [[dragon]] god of [[destruction]] and chaos.
* [[Rofirein]], the Lord Protector, dragon god of law and order.
* [[Shadon]], the Trickster, gnome god of trickery.
* [[Shindaleria]], Mother Ocean, elven goddess of the ocean.
* [[Sulterio]], the Brooding One, deep [[dwarf]] god of mining and [[poison]].
* [[Toran]], the Great Leader. Human god of honor, truth and righteousness
* [[Vierdri'ira]], Mother of [[Darkness]], dark elf goddess of darkness.
* [[Vorax]], the Father of Battle, dwarven god of battle.
* [[Xeen]], Mistress of Pleasure and Pain, human goddess of pleasure and wine.

Main Page

2019-03-20T20:14:29Z

Ke Koa: /* Getting started */

Beginners Guide to Layonara

2019-03-15T04:03:18Z

Ke Koa:

This is it. You've found it. An online community of role players who play the game old-school, pen-and-paper style. "But wait? I thought this was a video game," you say. Well it is. And it isn't. Or rather, it's ever so much more.

[[Layonara]] is a place you come to create and explore stories in a sword-and-sorcery style fantasy world. And truly, that's the game: creating meaningful stories. The kind you'd like to tell and retell over again. The kind of stories that excite you, appall you, make you giddy, and ultimately invoke every other emotion somewhere along the way.

We're in the story-making business, and we've got a job for you. We need you to make the hero, the villain, the innocent bystander, and the reluctant soldier. We need you to give these characters life and make them believable. We need you to make characters that are integral parts of the stories that envelop Layonara. And we need you to role play those characters.
<div style="float:right; max-width:50%">__TOC__</div>
==Tools to Create Our Stories==
The next big important thing you need to know about Layonara is that this is a text-based game. You will read and write, read and write some more, then a lot more, and by the time you've made stories of your own here, you may discover your vocabulary has doubled in size. You'll probably be able to type a lot faster, too. Most of the writing takes place in game as dialogue between your character and another PC or NPC. And no, you don't need to be some sort of published novelist to have fun here. All you have to do is imagine what your character might say in a given situation, and that's what you write/type.

We use several tools in order to create our stories, to field our words. They include the Layonara Website and Forums, Layonara's Discord server, and of course the multiplayer version of Bioware's Neverwinter Nights video game client. Let's chat a little about each:

===The Layonara Website and Forums===
If your mind is where the story of your character starts for you, the Forums are where the story of your character starts for everyone else. Specifically, it starts with [[Character Submission]]. You can think of the character submission as a prelude or introduction to the first chapter of the character's life. Our Character Approvers will help you fit your character into the fabric of the world that is Layonara. In fact, this is where the game really begins. So take your time and dive into the finding out who your character is at the beginning of his/her life.

Our website will help you learn about the places and people in Layonara. You can give your character a history in the world and that history will help shape the character. This will give you a frame of reference for future role play. While you learn about our world, consider these questions: Who are the parents? Why did your character decide to become an adventurer? Who trained them to swing a sword or tame their [[spellweaving]]? These are the sorts of questions you want to consider when developing the first page or two of your character's story.

The forums aren't just for character creation, though. You can create your own journal to chronicle your character's story in the Character Development forums. You'll find that for many ongoing events / stories / campaigns / organizations, a forum exists for IC interaction. Our community has found many creative ways to use this resource to both show their originality and to illustrate more about their characters. Tavern scenes, quest discoveries, research and just idle sharing are just a sampling of what takes place IC. In other words, a great deal of role play takes place on the Forums.

===Neverwinter Nights===
Bioware's Neverwinter Nights (NWN) video game client provides a visual interface for the environment and character interactions, allowing for both a deeper sense of immersion in the world, as well as a means to play with people from around the world in real time. You will very quickly learn that the module is HUGE, with literally hundreds of areas to explore. Mostly, though, these areas serve as the backdrop for the ongoing stories in the world, from the Red [[Light]] [[goblin]] caves to Le'tennodin's Tomb under the [[Thunder Peaks]]. Each place in Layonara has a history - some long, some short - and you will have a chance to leave your character's mark in that history.

We've added dozens of systems to enrich the environment and role play. We've also provided a massive source of information regarding the mechanics of Neverwinter Nights right here on the Wiki, from the [[Feats]] list to a Glossary of commonly used terms. Any questions you may have regarding game play on the Neverwinter Nights client can be posted in the Ask A Gamemaster forums, and someone from our team will reply within the day, if not a few minutes.

===Discord===
Last but not least are the chat rooms of [https://discord.gg/YQRd5hB Discord]. You can use Discord to get real-time responses from players and GMs (Gamemasters) alike. This is especially handy when you can't load up the Neverwinter Nights client for whatever reason but you want to role play an interaction between player characters that doesn't require combat or NPCs. You simply [[emote]] and dialogue just as if you were in the game client. You can also get support for any other questions or issues you may have through Discord.

==Terms and Methods Used==
Now that you know what tools you have to work with, let's talk about some of the terms and methods used in Layonara to create stories through role play. Layonara sees all kinds of players, from former/current PnP (pen-and-paper) players, to those that have only played video game RPGs (role-playing games), to those that have not played much or any of either. Maybe you [[haven]]'t even played through the single player client of Neverwinter Nights. Or maybe you're wondering why you're even bothering to read this with the fifteen years of role playing you already have under your belt. Either way, Layonara is both for experienced players as well as people brand new to role playing, and we strive to utilize the mix of experience to teach the new players about story telling and role play in an interactive and safe environment. And if you haven't read the [[Role Players Guide to NWN]], you should.

===The Gamemaster===
If you have any gaming experience at all, you have likely heard of the term GM, or Gamemaster (also called a DM, or Dungeonmaster). A Gamemaster is someone who plays the part of the world with which the player characters interact. Without a Gamemaster, the world would be a static, predictable, and rather boring place. The Gamemaster's job is to offer dynamic responses on behalf of the world, perhaps in the form of an NPC, to the words and deeds of the PCs. Here at Layonara, our GMs are integral parts of a Team that does more than just interact with players in the game, however. Our GMs act as administrators, designers, clerks, developers, and most spend time as players as well. On top of that, the GMs here also provide catalysts for the many stories created in Layonara. We call these GM-initiated stories Quests.

===The PC===
The Player Character, or PC for short, is the character played by you. It's not just your avatar; it's an entity much like the character from a book, with quirks and emotion, ambition and history. In fact, it's not you at all, but rather an entity controlled and given life by you, and while that inherently means at least some of who you are will be infused in your characters, your PC should not be you turned into a pointy-eared archer. When playing your PC, try to imagine what someone with your character's personality and background would do in response to a given situation; don't just have your PC do what you would do.

===The NPC===
The Non-player Character, or NPC for short, is every other entity with some level of [[intelligence]] that roams around the world and in some way interacts with the PCs. NPCs are always present and outnumber the PCs a million to one. NPCs are as unique in personality and goals as any PC might be, so don't just assume they will respond favorably or predictably to your PCs actions. NPCs are usually given life by GMs, as they are part of the world that the GM represents, part of the world with which your PC interacts. The king whose castle you defended is an NPC, and so is the yawning cat who won't stop sneaking into your PCs house at night.

===Quests===
Quests are the bread and butter of Layonara. The most intense action, the most heart wrenching tragedies, the absolutely hilarious moments, and the most world-changing actions occur during quests. In many ways, the whole game of Layonara is centered around quests, and those things that are done outside of quests often happen solely to affect something happening or something that will happen on a quest. So what exactly is a quest? A quest is a story centered around a given conflict. A GM provides the conflict as the catalyst for the story, and it is through resolving this conflict that the story unfolds. The unique characters involved, PCs and NPCs alike, determine the course of action that leads to the resolution. Quests are therefore dynamic and fluid, meaning that the end of the story is not determined from the beginning, but rather through the overall set of choices made by the participating group of PCs. The best quests present you and your character with tough choices that challenge who the character believes he/she is and who you believe your character to be.

You can find new and ongoing quest series on the GM Calendar. Note the start time, as we have GMs from around the world, and what may be 10:00 (10AM) for him/her could be 4:00 (4AM) for you. Also, players are granted experience (XP) simply for participating in quests. The experience granted is based on level (a standard amount) and participation (subjective according to the GMs observation of your role play). This means that regular participation in quests guarantees character advancement in worldly recognition, in mechanical ability and level, and in personal goals. Quests typically last anywhere from two to five hours, with the average being somewhere closer to four hours. Most players schedule to be part of one or two quests a week.

A particularly long series of quests is often referred to as a Campaign. Campaigns usually last for at least a year, and tell an over-arching story in an episodic manner via the quests. Playing a campaign quest on a weekly basis can be compared to watching your favorite television series each week, except that you get to make a difference in how the story goes.

==Character Advancement==
Through interactions and experiences in the world, your character will find himself/herself advancing. There are several manners in which your character may advance, and you'll find that the most enjoyment comes from the natural sort of progression that occurs as you take your time in developing the story of your character rather than spending hours killing the same set of monsters over and over again. I mentioned earlier that this is a text-based game, and I have also reiterated that this game is about story creation. As such, it is not a game you can win or lose in the traditional sense. Yes, your character may defeat a monster, survive a grueling adventure, or rescue the damsel in distress, all of which might be labeled as "wins," but the story of Layonara doesn't end there. The world of Layonara is ongoing, and keeps moving and changing regardless of whether or not your character is in it or doing anything. In other words, this is not a game that you can "beat." There is no last level, no final boss that once defeated makes the world perfect. Layonara is a complicated world with thousands of factions and beliefs, not unlike our own. In fact, sometimes "losing" can be as much fun as winning when it comes to making an interesting and meaningful story. That said, let's outline some basic manners of advancement.

===Mechanical Advancement===
Mechanical advancement is likely the manner of advancement with which you are most familiar. It is represented by your character increasing in measured [[abilities]] and skills, such as [[strength]] or lock-picking. NWN handles this via the 3rd edition [[Dungeons & Dragons]] (DnD) style of advancement, which includes growing in "levels" based on numerical experience point (XP) ceilings. Each new level your character reaches provides some manner of mechanical benefit, primarily based on the class/type of character he/she is. A [[fighter]] will gain more fighting skills, a [[wizard]] will gain more magic, and so on. One very important thing to note is that while mechanical advancement often comes as part of advancing your character's personal goals or advancing his/her position in society, gaining mechanical advancement does not also include gaining character or worldly advancement. What this means is that your mechanical level is not necessarily indicative of your character's rank in society or any amount of personal growth. For example, a 10th level character may be the mayor of a city, while a 40th level character might hardly be known in the world. When the Queen shows up in the city, she's going to visit with the 10 level Mayor, even though the 40th level character has mechanical abilities and skills that far outclass the 10th level character. If you want to be the ultimate warrior, you will eventually want to peak out mechanically, but if you want anyone to care that you're the ultimate warrior, you will want to spend more time developing who your character is and interacting with the world.

===Character Advancement===
Also referred to as personal advancement or character development, this is represented by the beliefs, relationships, personality, and decisions of your character throughout his/her story. Choosing to join one kingdom over another, falling in love with the farmer's daughter, or having a mental breakdown after the loss of a dear friend are all examples of character advancement. These are the moments that shape the life of your character. These are the meaningful moments that make role play and this style of game so appealing, the same kind of appeal that draws you to your favorite book or movie.

===Worldly/Social Advancement===
This kind of advancement has to do with one's position in the world, and often involves one's social status. If character advancement has to do with how your character views himself/herself, then worldly advancement has to do with how the world (and all its various societies) views your character. How much political power your character wields, how well known he/she is, and the kind of respect your character engenders are all aspects of worldly advancement. A few examples of worldly advancement include becoming the captain of a ship, becoming the second-most famous pie-maker in the city, and founding a local merchant guild. You will definitively find some overlap of character and worldly advancement on occasion, as that personal decision to betray the Queen and join the side of the [[dragon]] because the Queen did not return your affection (character advancement) may have just landed you on the top of the most wanted criminal's list (worldly advancement).

You may already be able to see this, but the kind of mark your character leaves on the world primarily has to do with the latter two manners of advancement mentioned above, character and worldly advancement. However, sometimes one can't complete his/her personal and political goals without some level of mechanical advancement, whether that be advancing one's swordplay or developing better techniques to search for hidden objects. Quests provide the opportunity to gain advancement on all accounts, and at a balanced speed, so that you don't end up having the 30th level character that only five people in the world, PC or NPC, actually know.

==Wrap Up==
That about sums it up! The Game of Layonara in a nutshell. The rest is a wild ride of danger, intrigue, magic, and mystery. Create your own character and help us write the story of Layonara. We guarantee you the memories made playing here will be unforgettable.

Raven Tribe Kingdom: Politics

2019-03-15T03:55:10Z

Ke Koa:

Krashin is at peace with all nations; however, tensions with Trelania rose when the clans were starving and became desperate when the Dark Ages took a toll on what crops could be harvested and livestock was difficult to raise.
Four tribes call [[Krashin]] their home and currently the [[Raven Tribe]] is the dominate one. The other three are the Bear, Wolf and Wolverine tribes. Each tribe is made up of many clans.

While the outside world sees the entire island as one "kingdom" there is in fact not really a king. The leader of the strongest tribe is generally representing the interests of the tribes to the outside world. However, when it comes to matters between tribes or clans, the leaders of each tribe have an equal say in things.