Posts from Tiaral

Guys, can you point me to where I can read more about the game mechanics? Right now, it just lists the factions and perks, which makes it hard for someone new to understand.

I can try to explain it briefly...
A character consists of skill points (allows you to choose skills = specialization for accessing abilities. Example: "one-handed weapons"), abilities (e.g., dual wielding in the one-handed weapon branch), and attributes (strength, etc.).
Attributes provide parameters (health, evasion, accuracy, immunity, etc.).
Parameters work differently in combat, but most often in the form of checks. Let's say someone attacks something with a sword. "Someone" has 50 accuracy. "Something" has 100 evasion. The game rolls a check of 1-50 accuracy against 1-100 evasion. If the check succeeds, there is a hit.
Damage is the base damage of the weapon, plus modifiers (e.g., from strength), but the result is reduced by a percentage if the defender has armor.
The battle itself takes place on a grid. The base speed was 3. I don't know what it is now.
There can also be various checks outside of combat. For example, immunity to poison.
That's roughly it...
If it's not clear how to play in principle, you create a character and then write down their actions. The result of the actions is determined by the game master by default.

You don't need to read the post about the factions, Rudy. It's more of a placeholder for the future, as far as I can tell. And right now, our characters don't have access to the content in that post.

Thanks, Mент. Mold, okay, but what should we read then?
Do I understand correctly that characters from older games would be relevant in any setting (with this GM)?
And yes, is there anywhere a more detailed explanation of what Mент wrote? What is the goal of the game (besides role-playing fun)? How does hero progression work? Are all heroes on the same side?
Based on my experience with RPGs: average level D&D 4, weak Fate Core. As far as I understand, there's something in common with the first one here.

Am I correct in understanding that the Persians from the older games would be relevant in any setting (for this GM)?

Well, not exactly. But generally, yes. Especially starting with "Reimian Empire" – yes.
No one has written about it in detail. Everyone intuitively embraced this theme.

What is the goal of the game (besides role-playing fun)? How does hero progression work?

Well, role-playing fun.
I don't know how the progression works... Previously, it involved potions, swimming in pools, completing quests, and learning from teachers... Now, it seems like "experience" has been added; you should ask Revan about that.

Are all the heroes on the same side?

In theory, not necessarily, and it has varied. But we generally aim to have them all on the same side; it's more convenient.

Mold, okay, but what should we read then?

All posts except the fifth one.

Am I right in understanding that the Persians from the old games would be relevant in any setting (with this GM)?

As far as I remember, you last played with Revan in expeditions through Erathia. But here is a new setting where the old characters are completely irrelevant.

And yes, is there anywhere a more detailed explanation of what Ment wrote?

Ment, it seems, has already conveyed the essence well. The system is quite simple. If you need more details, it is better to formulate specific questions, and I will try to answer them.

What is the goal of the game (besides role-playing fun)?

To survive until Revan gets tired of leading. Seriously, to successfully complete tasks at the moment. To earn money and fame. Until an assignment appears for an expedition to another continent, in which we will participate.

how is the hero leveling going?

Revan didn't say, but I assume that it is as a reward for quests. Well, and other optional stat and skill boosters. Like the skill of an alchemist or specific beliefs/racial bonuses.

are all the heroes on the same side?

Yes, we are all members of the same group. We decided to play as a mercenary squad called "Iron Hearts".

I think there is something in common with the first one.

There is a little.

I'm not sure about the "Heroist" build.

I have a mage with useless buffs, an Aihornian with resurrection, and a Visterian warrior. Good thing you reminded me, I need to finish writing the quest.

Don't forget to give him the "Useless Resurrection" spell too! You'll be able to revive successfully at the end of the battle and revive your allies. Unless, of course, you have to share the treasure with them. Except, perhaps, if you killed the boss.

How exactly does the map work? Does the map change depending on the chosen faction, and does a single random event trigger?

No. It's entirely up to the player's discretion; they can draw up to two cards. The card is determined randomly and can activate multiple (or none) events at once. Besides the risk of familiar penalties, it's also worth considering that the cards force you to play as a representative of the corresponding faction. For example, if you draw cards for Erathia and Camelot, you will be forced to create a character from one of these countries. In some situations, the effect of a card may force you to play as a representative of a specific country, even if you drew more than one. For example, if the effect of a vampire card assigns you to a particular clan, while the effect of the second card assigns nothing (or something relatively vague, like wealth). I should also note that there is a "Luck" belief that allows you to draw an additional card and/or cancel the effect of any of the drawn cards (including the new one, if you decide to draw). However, if you decide to draw a third card, you will be forced to take this belief for your character, even if the results don't suit you. I think that's all.

I'm not taking it. I have a Tactician and a Warrior. Alex, I think, had an Alchemist (?). Neyra has a Ranged unit, if she hasn't changed her mind. I'm not sure about Heroist.

Yes, I'm making a Ranged unit. I just haven't decided which weapon to focus on. I have a name for it, but I don't understand the functional differences between them.

I would suggest something along these lines:
Arquebus - a "basic" firearm, with all the associated characteristics.
Sniper Arquebus - greater range and possibly damage, but lower rate of fire.
Heavy Arquebus - greater damage and armor penetration, at the cost of range (?).
Hand Cannon - an AoE weapon.
Portable Cannon - less maneuverable, but a more long-range or higher-damage version of the hand cannon.
Tanegashima - press X to win.

In that fleeting moment of the endless cycle of life and death, when one noble soul, resigned to its unenviable fate, cast its destiny into the predatory clutches of luck, somewhere far beyond the seething sea waters, another also trusted in fortune's smile, albeit on a somewhat different scale.

-Ah, damn it! -exclaimed a middle-aged man with blond hair and a short beard in annoyance, throwing aside the ill-fated dice. -Good thing we weren't playing for life or anything like that!
-You lost again, Delius. -his companion at the table in the roadside tavern was a tall man in a plain dark travel cloak. The upper part of his face was tightly hidden beneath a wide hood, and he sat sideways to the table, legs crossed.
-I can see that without you, uh... -the healer hesitated, rubbing his forehead.
-Relhíras. -the mercenary introduced himself curtly, then turned sharply toward Delius, momentarily revealing a wide scabbard made of sturdy leather reinforced with metal bands hanging from his belt. Despite an outward calm mixed with indifference, all of Relhíras's rare movements were marked by surprising sharpness and speed. -What's that around your neck? -he asked unexpectedly.
-What are you talking about? -Delius began, grabbing hold of the precious amulets hidden under his shirt just in case, but then thought better of it and answered honestly: -Ah, that. A rare little gift straight from Hekkelia.
-Hekkelia? -Relhíras repeated. -May I have a look? -he extended his hand forward, but withdrew it abruptly a moment later.
-Better... not to do that. Don't think I don't trust you or anything like that...
-Protective magic. I see. -the cloaked mercenary stated quietly. -How did you come by them?
-Are you really interested? -Delius asked in surprise. -And here I thought you weren't a fan of stories and chatter. Alright, I'll tell you, just let me wet my throat first. Hey, yes, you, pour my friend and me some more beer!

-So, this story goes back to those olden days when I, trying to save the family business, enlisted in the Order of the Noble Wolf. I recall those years were plagued by a terrible crop failure, my parents were starving, my wife and I could barely make ends meet. And I also wanted to serve the Motherland, of course. I wasn't trained in weapon combat, but I was well-versed in the art of healing. Anyway, they accepted me into the Order. I can't say I became a successful servant, heh. Some even scoffed at me, saying, why do we need a useless healer who needs to be fed and protected on top of it. But sometimes my abilities came in handy.
-Get to the point.
-That's what I'm doing! So, day after day, year after year, we set out with the squad on a journey through Hekkelia. On a mission, of course. One thing led to another, we became friends with the local Sun clan, or whatever they're called. To me, the most decent folks among the locals in those parts. At least they don't eat people! Almost... They even taught me a thing or two that was useful. And we were acting against the Blood clan back then. Brrr, just remembering gives me the creeps. -Delius grimaced. -Though if it weren't for them, I'd never have met my beloved Cataviana. Nor gotten these amulets.
-So, these amulets are from there? -Relhíras asked calmly.
-Exactly! I was unlocking some chest or other, when I hear something beckoning me, calling to me from a nearby little box. I looked inside: amulets. I didn't even notice how I put them on. And you know, something inside me immediately skipped a beat. Changed, that is. I saw the world differently somehow. And most importantly, I felt I could achieve a lot more in life.
-Enchanted items never lead to anything good.
-I know that well! -the healer agreed. -But what difference does it make. So, we were then returning from these Hekkelians' estate through the underground section. And as luck would have it, that's where they were keeping slaves. I'm running past one cell, I turn my head briefly in that direction, and the moment I looked, I froze on the spot. A girl was sitting there, chained up, of extraordinary beauty — for us simple Celians, you only read about such in books. That's when I forgot about everything in the world. And besides, there was no guard around anyway, it would have been a sin not to take the chance to save her.
-A foolish and reckless act.
-Oh, come on! But the reward my Cataviana gave me afterwards, heh-heh, if you know what I mean...
-I understand. You greatly harmed the Hekkelians of that clan, and possibly their leader personally. Stole valuable relics...
-Not stole, borrowed!
-...and took a slave girl with you. To be honest, I'm surprised you're still alive. -having lost all interest in the conversation, Relhíras turned back to the window.
-No, no, no, you have to hear the rest!
-Why? You've told me everything I wanted to know.
-Because it's rude to interrupt a story halfway through. -Delius insisted, finishing another round of drinks. -So anyway, Cataviana then fell head over heels in love with me, and I didn't know how to show my face to the guys from the Order anymore. And I suddenly felt a terrible homesickness, remembered my wife. Damned if I understand these feelings. Or maybe I just became such a fickle person. In the end, we had to part ways. For a short while, of course. As it turned out, she secretly followed me. Well here, it seems, it's fate, nothing less! And I, in turn, returned with the squad to my homeland, Celia.
Delius fell silent for a moment, taking a deep breath.
-Since then, my life has been completely different. Just imagine, I seize every profitable opportunity I see! I saved my parents' farm from ruin, and on top of that expanded the household, had children, sent them to school. Let them learn science and literacy there. Found new friends. Stefan, for instance, a great guy! If there's a chance, I'll definitely introduce you. In my own Order, though, things went downhill. They, you see, didn't like my shifting "moral values." And screw them! At least they let me keep my pet — Fang. I grew so attached to him over the years of service. And how many times he saved me! You see, the servants take them in when they're just little wolf cubs. And he essentially grows up with you, matures. Becomes like family.
After a short pause, Delius caught his breath.
-Then I got sick of this whole family life. Too quiet and orderly, you know? Not for me. And just then, believe it or not, a great opportunity came up! I heard a new organization had appeared in Celia, looking for volunteers. Seemed less hassle than the Order, and more profitable. So I thought, why let such a chance slip by! And I was right. Then I offered the same to my buddy Stefan, he needed some extra cash too...

-Alright, alright, that's enough details. -Relhíras finally cut him off. -That's probably the most boring and tedious story I've ever heard.
-Oh, go on! -the healer waved his hand. -Well then, what about you? I've bared my soul to you, it's only fair if you...
-No. -the mercenary cut him off firmly.
-At least a little, I'm curious! You're probably quite the bore yourself. Or maybe you just can't tell stories either, huh?
-... -Relhíras sighed heavily. -Fine. What do you want to know?
-Well, you know, uh, where you're from and all that, at least...
In response, the Celian's companion carefully lifted the edges of his hood, revealing an overly feminine face and a mane of long snow-white hair with barely noticeable magenta streaks.
-Well, well, if you aren't one of those... -Delius gasped. -Visterians, I mean. -he added hastily. -Wow, but what are you doing out here? You've got that perfect country and everything.
-For certain reasons, I decided to leave Visteria. -Relhíras replied. -My own mother was always excessively interested in the lives of other minor peoples of Tiaraal, and at some point tied herself to one of their representatives.
-And that's, like, bad?
-I cannot give a clear answer to that question. But it is unbecoming of the chosen people to fall into debauchery and mix blood with ordinary mortals. I never knew my father, but from him I inherited dull hair and physical weakness not typical of my people. I was always frailer and slower than the others. That's why I left Visteria. At least until I gain enough experience, strength, and knowledge.
-Wow... But I still think you Visterians are being too high-and-mighty about yourselves. Take the Sarseidians, for instance...
-For your information, Sarseid was also founded by a native of Visteria. -Relhíras interrupted him.
-Alright, alright. I don't want to argue. But I think the creator populated this world with many different peoples... I'm sure somewhere far across the seas dwell those who are unafraid of death, or maybe even people who can punch through heavy plate armor with just a light touch of their palm!
-Nonsense. -his companion snorted contemptuously.
-Then can I ask something else? Why are you traveling with us, Relhíras? I'm grateful to you for saving me from those bandits, of course, but still...
-I am observing the lives of people like you, Delius. -the Visterian said after a brief silence. -You have achieved success, yet you still throw yourself headlong into the whirlpool of impending dangers. Perhaps understanding the recklessness of those like you will become the key to my own power. For now, I have decided to travel with you.
-Excellent! -the healer clapped his hands joyfully. -Then join us in the "Iron Hearts"! We've got fun, glory, and riches! I'm sure you'll find something to do.
-Something to do, you say? -a languid female voice sounded from somewhere behind the speakers' backs. -Don't you worry about that, boys! -the speaker's arms gently wrapped around Delius's neck. -I've missed you so much, my dear!
-And I've missed you too, darling. -the healer winked flirtatiously. -By the way, guess what, our new acquaintance turns out to be from Visteria itself!
-Oh, really? -Cataviana marveled. -I've heard that Visterians have bodies and appearances of ideal beauty, but whether they're as good in bed, I haven't yet had the chance to find out.
-Hey, what are you up to? -Delius feigned sternness.
-Oh, come on, I think the three of us together could have an unforgettable experience, ha-ha!
-Weak and lustful people, all you ever think about. -Relhíras rose from the table and headed for the exit. -I don't wish to be present at your games.
-Wait, where are you going? -Cataviana laughed. -Have I embarrassed him that much? Or maybe he's just never had a woman?
-That's probably childhood trauma. -the healer explained. -And besides, don't forget, you still have me, you know!
-Oh, I certainly won't forget that!

	Origin	Skills	Beliefs	Perks	Attributes	Inventory
Delius Mertz Img	— Fate Cards: 1 2 3 Celian Kingdom +15 to Strength and Will.	— Chilling — Cleansing — Flaming Wings — Restoration			Strength: 40 Intelligence: 50 Will: 30 Agility: 5 Perception: 5 Wisdom: 5 Charisma: 45	— Paired Amulets of Sinhaya — Travel Clothes — Travel Bag with Money for Two
Cataviana Img	Eichornia Elemental damage to the character is 75% lower, magical energy is twice as much, ability to move and cast spells simultaneously.	— Ghost Walk — Pillar of Flame — Angel's Touch — Demon's Touch			Strength: 20 Intelligence: 50 Will: 25 Agility: 15 Perception: 30 Wisdom: 5 Charisma: 5	— Eichornian Folk Garments — Jewelry
Relhíras Img	Visteria +20 to all attributes.	— Calm — Lunar Strike — Special Technique — Thousand Winds			Strength: 70 Intelligence: 25 Will: 25 Agility: 95 Perception: 50 Wisdom: 25 Charisma: 25	— Travel Cloak — Sturdy Boots — Two-Handed Sword — Money
Fang Img

Delhi Merz

Eder wasn't a mage...

Relkhiras

Don't the Vistarians have purple hair?

Yes, I'm making a ranged unit. I just haven't decided which weapon to base it on. I have the names, but I don't understand the functional differences between them.

They may have different modifiers and features, but the main differences are as follows:
Sniper Arquebus
Longer reload time, greater range.
Heavy Arquebus
Shorter range, higher damage.
Hand Cannon
Ability to move and shoot simultaneously, shorter range.
Portable Cannon
Longer reload time, movement speed restriction, area-of-effect damage (3x3).
Tanegashima
Improved arquebus.