conversations.from: system
conversations.value: The Empire of Goltannia: a bastion of order and justice in a chaotic, savage world. Ruled by the benevolent, wise, and powerful Emperor Goltannus, this land of goodness and righteousness has brought civilization to the uncivilized and has protected those who have no other protection. There is truly no greater realm in which to live.
  
  That is what the official imperial propaganda says. The more cautious citizens of Goltannia would never dare to disagree. After all, those who would dare to suggest that the Emperor or his loyal servants are anything less than correct in all things tend to disappear into the realm's many, many imperial prisons. There is no tolerance for sedition in Goltannia.
  
  Nor is there tolerance for witchcraft, thievery, worshiping the "wrong" god, evading the imperial draft currently in effect, or any number of other entries on the long, long list of offenses against the empire. Those who disobey soon find themselves in chains, forced to toil in endless labor to help keep the massive imperial army properly supplied.
  
  As many suffered under the emperor's brutal reign, whispers of rebellion began to spread. Could those who had been oppressed for so long finally seize the opportunity to rise up and seize the freedoms they had been so long denied? Only time would tell.
  
  ** OOC Information **
  
  This is a somewhat dark fantasy story about a small group struggling against a massive evil empire. However, the characters are not necessarily idealistic and righteous. They may be working against the empire for purely selfish reasons, to gain power for themselves, or just acting out of good old fashioned revenge.
  
  At the start of the story, all characters are incarcerated in one of the empire's many prisons/dungeons/labor camps. Please provide an explanation for how and why they were taken prisoner along with your character description. If you'd like it to be a secret, feel free to let me know in private messages or comments on the character page.
  
  I'm looking for a group of between three and five players. As with all my games, this one is LGBT friendly. No word limits, past tense preferred. Pre-made cards have been provided to offer some suggestions, but please feel free to write your own custom nature, strength, weakness, and subplot cards.
  
  Here are some notes on the setting to provide background and character ideas:
  
  ** Races **
  
  The Emperor and all nobility in Goltannia are human. Elves, dwarves, and other nonhuman races are found throughout the empire, but they are very much second class citizens. Owning land is prohibited for most nonhumans and they face systemic discrimination.
  
  The Empire has just completed a years-long conquest of dwarven territory and is currently at war with a large elven kingdom. Consequently, elves and dwarves are regarded with particular distrust. Just being suspected of sympathizing with the Emperor's enemies can be enough to get someone imprisoned.
  
  ** Religion **
  
  The Emperor claims to be a direct descendant of Goltan the Just, a powerful god of civilization and order. As such, while the existence of other gods is acknowledged, worship of Goltan is the only approved religion within the empire.
  
  Sometimes authorities turn a blind eye to rites associated with certain gods and goddesses who are regarded as part of Goltan's pantheon, but other faiths are strictly forbidden. Practicing the wrong religion can result in imprisonment, particularly if someone is suspected of actually spreading illegal teachings.
  
  ** Magic **
  
  Magic exists throughout the world and can be mastered through diligent study, though some are born with greater innate talents for it than others. According to his propaganda, the Emperor himself is among the world's most powerful wielders of the arcane.
  
  There are several varieties of magic. Some use it to bend the elements to their will. Others employ it to heal wounds and illnesses. Others can use it to see glimpses of the future or faraway places. Some say magic can even raise the dead. Most who practice magic tend to focus on a particular aspect, as it is nearly impossible to master a wide variety of spells.
  
  Only the nobility and officially sanctioned imperial magi in service to the army are permitted to practice magic. For all others, the practice of magic is considered witchcraft, a very serious crime.
  
  ** Crime **
  
  The Goltannian justice system can be incredibly harsh. Long prison sentences are common even for minor offenses like petty theft. The system is also corrupt, allowing the wealthy and those who have the Emperor's favor to escape punishment for much more serious offenses.
  
  Part of the reason for these harsh laws is that prisoners are employed to keep the economy of the empire functioning. With a large portion of the empire's able bodied youth drafted into mandatory military service, prisoners are used as labor in the mines and fields, keeping the military supplied.
  
  One small merciful side effect of this policy is that the death penalty is rarely used. After all, a dead man cannot provide valuable labor. Execution is generally limited to those deemed too dangerous to keep alive, such as powerful magic users or leaders of treasonous plots.
  
  ** The Military **
  
  A military draft has been in effect across the Empire for the past five years. All able bodied individuals between the ages of sixteen and thirty are required to serve in the military. Nobles are exempt from this service, as are those wealthy enough to afford a rather substantial payment.
  
  Attempting to evade the draft or desertion from military service typically results in a lengthy imprisonment.
  
  ** Last Comments **
  
  Feel free to message me with any questions. Special thanks to all the writers in both previous Dark Reapers stories. While this game does not take place in the same universe, the tone is very much inspired by those games.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Fallen Noble: Even among the nobility, those who displease the emperor can lose everything.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Elf: An ancient and long lived people, originating in the heavily forested lands where the empire currently wages war.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Deserter: Unable to cope with the horrors of war, many try to escape from military service. It rarely goes well.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Dwarf: A proud and industrious people, originating in the mountain kingdoms recently conquered by the empire.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Mage: Magic can be powerful, but following the mage's path can be very dangerous indeed.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Criminal: The empire's prisoners are packed full of thieves, murderers, and others who dared to defy the laws of the land.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Rebel: Even in the face of the empire's power and cruelty, there are those who dare to stand up and fight against it.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Devout: Many of the old faiths still survive in the empire, despite how dangerous it can be to hold such beliefs.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Clever: You have a knack for using your wits to get out of trouble.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Knowledgable: You know a great many things about a great many subjects.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Strong: You have great physical strength and stamina.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Brave: You never let your fears hold you back, even in terrifying situations.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Stealthy: You have a gift for moving unseen and unheard.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Quick: You have fast feet and fast hands, with reflexes to match.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Magic: You can wield the arcane forces of magic. Powerful, but potentially dangerous.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Charismatic: You have a talent for persuading and inspiring others.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Revenge: You suffered through a terrible injustice. Now you crave vengeance.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Faith: You have a strong belief in a particular set of religious teachings. You do your best to adhere to the principles of your faith.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Power: Others have held power over you for too long. You want to take control for your own sake.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Protect Others: There are people you care deeply about in this world. You will do whatever it takes to keep them safe.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Thrills: You love the excitement of living a dangerous life. Higher ideals matter less to you, as long as you get the rush you chase.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Learn Secrets: You wish to see the world as it truly is, chasing hidden knowledge no matter the costs.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Freedom: You want to live life on your own terms, no one else's.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Make a Better World: You earnestly yearn to create a more just and peaceful world for everyone, not just yourself.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Reckless: You have a tendency to charge into danger without fully considering the consequences.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Arrogant: You believe that you can easily handle any challenge. Sadly, you are not always correct.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Frail: You lack strength and endurance, and are taxed by any sort of physical challenge.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Paranoid: You have a great deal of difficulty trusting others, which makes it difficult for you to work cooperatively.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Cowardly: You have a tendency to freeze up or panic in frightening situations.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Greedy: You put your own desires first, even in situations where it is a very bad idea.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Cursed: Hexed either by magic or simply the cruelty of fate, you always seem to have absolutely terrible luck.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Ignorant: Either through a deprived upbringing or a simple lack of curiosity about the world, you are unaware of many things considered common knowledge to most.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Isander's Tower: The crumbling stone lair of a notorious criminal mage, located on the far edges of the empire.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Warden Kroel: Warden of one of the largest and most feared of the empire's prisons. A harsh and often cruel man.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Rusted Shortsword: A dull and pitted blade. Obviously well used.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Inaccurate Crossbow: The aim is off by quite a bit. Was this an apprentice's work? Comes with half a dozen bolts.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Old Torch: A simple wooden stick with one end wrapped in flammable rags. Serviceable as a light source, or a weapon in extremely desperate circumstances.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Battered Shield: A splintering plank of wood with a few leather straps. Clearly has taken at least one powerful blow and never received repairs.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Search the Tower: That gem is in here somewhere. But where? Where should they even begin looking?
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Trap!: The other prisoners seemed concerned that this place might hold magical traps for the unwary. Are they right?
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Chained Drake: The tower's former occupant left a terrible and dangerous beast to guard his most valuable possessions.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Rival Prisoners: Another group of prisoners has found you and demands the gem for themselves.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: The Goltannian Plains: A wide tract of farmland in the outskirts of the Goltannian Empire.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Remove Your Chains: Your wrists and ankles have been chained together, and the guard with the key is out fighting the ambushers.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Escape the Wagon: The wagon transporting the prisoners has been knocked over, leaving the entrance blocked. How can they escape?
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Mysterious Mage: Clearly someone with great magical power. But are they friend or foe?
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Rebel Hideout: Someplace dark and underground, lit only by flickering torchlight.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Elothia: A skilled soldier and veteran of many battles. Seen as a leader by the rebels of Goltannia.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: The Rebels: The prisoners have been given freedom to explore the base. Maybe they can learn a little about their rescuers.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Rest and Recuperation: Proper food and proper rest are things you've been without for a very long time. Time to make the best of it.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Planning the Mission: The rebels are planning on launching a strike against Warden Kroel's prison. They would need every edge they could find if they were to succeed.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Ythys' Tear: The gem the Warden was so keen to recover seems to enhance magic considerably. Who will hold it during the raid on the prison?
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Dunn Pointe: One of the most feared imperial prisons, an imposing fortress set against a cliff face.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Approach Unseen: Getting spotted before Barithor attacks could create some serious problems for the group.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Call the Drake: Varnas and Tanyth suggested trying to summon the drake they freed from Isander's Tower. Is such a thing possible?
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Prison Guards: The prison is swarming with guards. Even with the distraction at the other entrances and the losses from the earlier battle, they represent a major threat.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: The Drake: The freed drake has come to assist his rescuers. With powerful teeth and claws, this is a formidable ally indeed.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Rescue Prisoners: Rescuing prisoners is one of the primary goals of this mission. Many could be potential recruits for the rebel forces.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Identify Attackers: The prison is suddenly swarming with soldiers from the imperial army. How did they get here? Why are they here?
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Save Prisoners: The prisoners are out of their cells, but the imperial army is cutting them down left and right. They'll need some help.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Regroup: If there is any chance of saving the day, the rebels will need to regroup and fight as a team.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Barithor: A powerful mage, and Elothia's most trusted advisor.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: The Prisoners: The mission at Dunn Pointe succeeded in liberating numerous former prisoners. They could be assets to the rebel cause.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Silveroak: An elven city on the edge of their great forests, currently under Goltannian occupation.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Contact the Elven Rebels: Silveroak is supposedly home to a sizable rebel group who wishes to return the city to elven rule. How can you find these people?
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Inconstant: "O, swear not by the moon, th' inconstant moon, that monthly changes in her circle orb."
  
  Your emotions and feeling tend to wax and wane unpredictably.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Divine Magic: You are a faithful priestess of a forbidden goddess. Your magic is a gift from her.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Persuasive: You have a persuasive way of speaking that can convince others to see things your way.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Child-like: It's easy to forget about children underfoot, but sometimes they say the darnedest things.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Clever: Well, what do you know. All of those years of private tutoring paid off, after all.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Risk Averse: You're not afraid.  You just think you have sense enough not to do that.  Of course, you may not end up with what you want...
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Diplomacy: Years of living in a house of nobility did give you some significant skills and experience with negotiation and tact.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Frightened: These are not normal goings on!  Must not panic, must not-- oh who am I kidding? 
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Physically Weak: You are neither strong, nor nimble. Too bad.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Devoted: Loyalty, once earned, it is difficult to discard.  Once a friend, only true betrayal will sway this little one's heart to sadness.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: High Priestess: You were the High Priestess of the Temple of the Moon before it was destroyed. That still carries some status weight and status.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Loyal to the Cause: Due to your circumstances, you have become loyal to a cause. You work and fight for the success of your cause. You may get captured by the enemy, you may become injured, you may even die for your cause. There is very little that will dissuade you from your cause. 
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Magically Depleted: Your magic is gifted by Ythys, Goddess of the Moon, and it waxes and wanes. Sometimes, you just need time to recharge.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Creature of the Air: Being underground is uncomfortable - no sky, no sun, no seeds to sing to her through her toes.  They were too far away...
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Drink Down the Moon: Your deity is Ythys and she grants you her aid and protection. It will be impossible for you to recuperate until you can bather in her light.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Observant: You watch people and see how they act in situations. You understand how and why people act the way they do after you've watched them or talked to them.
  
  You may watch too much and not interact not enough. Be careful your observing does not become a weakness.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Broken Temple: The Temple you served in was broken. Your goddess still grants you power, but you tend to doubt your own abilities.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Dexterity: You are nimble and skilled with your hands.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Faith: Your faith gives you power and you spread the truth of your goddess through your deeds.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Regain Honor: They tore your honor from you when they chained you up. You must work to regain what was lost.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Regain Honor: They tore your honor from you when they killed your charge and chained you up. You must fight to regain what was lost.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Death Wish: To seek your own death in battle against the most dangerous enemy possible would be the most fitting end for you unless you can regain your honor. You relish the chance for mortal combat.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Trustworthy: You may not be friends with everyone you meet, nor even be likeable, but once someone proves worthy of your friendship, they can count on you any time, in any place, in any situation.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Aid the Cause: In an attempt to help others and yourself, you devote yourself to becoming a part of a greater whole. You become a member of the rebel force fighting against the corrupt empire.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Fight Evil: There are some things thatshould never be in control.  This leader is evil, and he must be destroyed.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Wise: You have lived for a very long time and have become wise.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Proud: You've only just begun your fight against the Empire. Pride insists you must move forward until you cannot move any longer.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Subtle : You're as stealthy socially as well as you are physically.
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Faith: Your faith gives you power and you spread the truth of your goddess through your deeds.
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Observant: You may not know what is of value, but you see everything.