Emp

I must confess. Illatia... Is a poorly-rated holiday resort in Crete.

I feel for the MT. I sense you guys are being pressured at every step, in every direction. I'm thinking you would be better off not scrambling to appease the community - don't put out material every week if it's for the sake of sticking to a schedule. Evaluate what is needed, and what you actually want to do. If you want solid suggestions of alternative projects, I'll direct you to my proposal: http://www.lordofthecraft.net/topic/109475-idea-media-team-documentary-series/#entry1029900

Poll Added.

Uh oh. We'll wait for the boss to decide, I suppose.

If I understand correctly... You want the name to sound Italian without being a blatant rip-off of 'Italian', I suppose? I think that the problem then is finding something that suits everyone's tastes, whereas this is simple and straightforward. Go ahead and throw around some ideas; I've only received one suggestion thus far.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qdu1IkjbyKo THE NICATORI BASTARD RETURNS The grand wooden doors of the throneroom of House Nicator groaned, and winter howled behind them as a solitary figure emerged from betwixt them. His dark locks whipped by the chilling winds that raced across his shoulders, the man, outfitted in sturdy leather strode steadily towards the steward that lounged at the opposite end of the hall. The steward’s children scampered to the safety of his arms; his wife, concerned, flew to his side, whispering questions into his ear. The mutterings with which he responded, a frustrated hand rising to his forehead, painted her face a ghostly shade of white, and sent her, stony-faced and stiff-necked, to a nearby seat. Theodosius Nicator raised his hands to heavens before leaving Frederick and his relatives to their fate. The steward sat solemnly upon his throne, brow furrowed in consternation, and lips drawn tight. His eyes followed the figure as it approached, as cold as the air that had spread across the room, chilling the Nicatorii. They themselves were speechless as the man raised a fist to an amulet that hung about his neck - that of House Nicator. With one forceful motion, the amulet was torn, and cast before the feet of Frederick. With a wry, unsettling grin, the unshaven man raised his eyes to the steward. “Father! Your bastard has returned!” -x- Aemondo Aedalfieri, bastard son of Frederick Nicator, borne of one of many young loves in the heat of his father’s twenty-first year, was the sole stain upon the esteemed family’s name. Up until this moment, he had been the best-kept secret in the Capital. However, the steps Frederick had taken to hide this secret were only ever temporary, considering the nature of this womanising, erratic, and volatile man - a bastard in every sense of the word. For near seventeen years, this individual had been hidden away, beyond the claws of any noble house - within the Church. There was no chance, however, that this boy would have lasted among the venerated clergy. Though he acquired an education, Aemondo never did appreciate the values of a scholarly life, instead preferring a life of debauchery. No censure seemed to curb his hedonistic pursuits, and, before his eighteenth year, he was expelled from the Church after being caught in the act of adultery with a servant-girl, much to the horror of his peers, however unsurpised they may have been. From there, he took on the life of a sellsword, his contracts taking him across the realm, though rarely in honourable pursuits. It was in this time that he acquired some skill with the blade, and appropriated his beloved bastard sword. It was so that a parchment found itself upon his desk, detailing his next assignment; inscribed upon it, the name of the Vicar Steward Theodosious Nicator.

I can understand where you're coming from, and am happy to hear that this culture might suit you and your house. However, I think that the complaints are unbased. I'm prepared to defend my stance. Give me suggestions, sure, but keep in mind that it's not simply a matter of something cool-sounding and ending in a vowel.. There's more logic than "Oh yeah, switch two letters; that's so damn cool and original!" The way I see it, 'Illatia' does harken one's mind to thoughts of Italy in general; it's a mix of 'Italian' and 'Latin' - to me, it sounds more like a Roman province, when pronounced correctly. Whilst some might regard that as a bad thing, it makes a clear connection in one's mind to the inspiration, allowing any player to have an understanding of the culture, without needing to read this post for such. I do appreciate the feedback so far, and I hope that, together, we can contribute to making this something truly great. I'm prepared to compile a list of suggestions.

Alright, a bit bettah; ACCEPTED. Have fun!

Hopefully this can form the foundation of some RP I hope to get happening in 4.0 :3 We can pretend that this is in no way related to 'Italian'. We can pretend that the Ruskiyan Orthodoxy is 100% original. We can stick our hipster noses up in the air, but the truth is that having such names in our fantasy world not only acknowledges our inspiration, but also a familiar point of reference, for the unspoken basics to be conveyed without throwing about over-complicated jargon to assure ourselves that we're oh-so original. Even so, feel free to suggest an alternative.

- RESERVED - I rushed towards the end in the hopes of getting this out sooner. Updates, etc. Will be noted here. Please feel free to leave feedback, suggestions, questions.

A DISCUSSION OF ILLATIAN CULTURE Aelidar ɪˈlɑ tɪ ən ORIGINS, AND EVOLUTION, OF THE ILLATIAN PEOPLE Humans, and the results of ethnic intermixing between both Southeron and Northerner groups, the Illatian people developed from their originally humble beginnings as simple farmers, settling in the realm of Anthos, under the leadership of the culture’s namesake, Illo the Elder - a title which, in itself, tells much about the strong patriarchal facet of the culture that developed thereforth. The intermingled nature of Illatian blood is a sign of not only their charm with foreigners, but of a people that, in their formative stages, were unable to resist any invading force. Over many years, the Illatians have been host to the occupation of various forces, whose soldiers often found themselves enamoured with Illatian women, to whom they might have returned after any number of wars. More often than not, however, Illatian women were left with the bastard children of these soldiers, who were then born and raised, with all their various differences, in an Illatian environment. This is but one factor in the diversity of Illatian ethnicity, which ranges from blonde-haired and blue-eyed, to olive-skinned and dark-haired, to the occasional copper-skinned individual of eastern descent. Thus, it is clear that attempting to label Illatians as a sub-race is futile. The rapid growth of the Illatian culture is due to the aforementioned mixing; with a myriad of connections and origins, the Illatian people found themselves benefiting from much trade and introduced technological advances. However, throughout the ages, key aspects of Illatian culture have endured, harkening back to its people’s first years as subsistence farmers. These traditions manifest themselves in the most basic of human existence - diet, family structure, personality, etc. However, as a new age dawns upon Illatia, a cultural rebirth brings with it revolution in architecture, fashion, and the arts. THE FOUR PILLARS OF ILLATIAN CULTURE: - PASSION - ART - FAITH - FORTITUDE - PASSION SOCIAL INTERACTION This cultural pillar manifests itself in Illatian culture primarily in social interaction; Illatians are known to be ardent lovers, expressive speakers, and smothering parents. Even towards an enemy, an Illatian is hospitable. Just as an Illatian’s amicability is intense (often to the point of being overwhelming!), an Illatian’s wrath is a frighteningly violent experience. Insulting a member of a typically close-knit family is sure to incur the full force of every member’s anger. Illatians are not only horrendously vocal in their arguments, but all-too-eager to put their threats into action. Feuds could easily last generations, if not for the commonplace dispute resolution that is a hearty meal shared across a dinner table. In saying this, it must be known that Illatians are not fools, to be manipulated by way of their strong emotions. As an originally agrarian culture, Illatians are typically shrewd hagglers, and often tight-fisted in expenditure. As will be discussed in the intertwined cultural pillar of art, Illatian minds are naturally suited to deep thinking. The cultural mindset seems to be one conducive to producing philosophers and scientists among the higher classes. CUISINE Their unbridled outpouring of emotion manifests itself in their culinary creations; Illatian cuisine is rustic, with origins amongst peasants, who made the most of affordable foods, but is served in plentiful quantities. The kitchen of an Illatian household is the centre of family life. Daughters are trained early by their mother to be capable homemakers themselves, yet even Illatian men are adept in front of a stovetop. When one thinks of a traditional Illatian meal, two dishes typically come to mind, though there are countless more: The first, and most common, is that of many, many small pieces of thin, unleavened dough of flour, water, and egg, usually served with a sauce of the ‘ganello’ fruit, commonly grown in Illatian gardens. This dish is known as ‘basto’. The second can easily be imagined as the invention of a bored, hungry Illatian peasant, who, one day, eating a loaf of bread, wondered what it would taste like covered with ganello sauce, and cooked over a woodfire. Some amount of cheese, sliced meat, and herbs later, the dish known as ‘petta’ is now commonplace in Illatian households. LOVE AND AFFECTION Illatians are infamous paramours, loyal spouses, and very sensitive. Despite the fact that almost all Illatian marriages are matches made by parents, these marriages are generally love-filled and fruitful. Illatians do not perceive ‘love’ as something that can only exist between two ‘star-crossed’ lovers, but, perhaps thanks to a deeper understanding of different forms of love (familial, romantic, parental, brotherly, etc.), Illatians are inclined to show all they know some form of love. As such, it is easy for one to ‘make oneself love’ another. Once arrangements have been made between parents, courting comprises of the man’s presentation of a gift and a kiss for his prospective wife. From this initial meeting, the couple are taught a complex dance by their village elder - with the title, ‘Illadoro’, and his wife, the ‘Illenia’. This dance will be performed at their eventual wedding, and ends with each sharing a goblet of wine. They then retreat to their new house, or room in the man’s father’s house, which has been prepared by the groom in the months prior. Therein, the marriage is consummated. Illatians display their affection openly, much to the embarrassment of foreign visitors. However, though the husband might publicly possess a position of authority, in the privacy of the household, the input of the wife is ‘highly valued’. Perhaps strange for foreigners is the open display of friendship between males, as well as females. It is common for friends of the same gender to hold hands or interlock arms as they walk about casually. CONFLICT As passionate in conflict as they are in love, Illatian people will engage in terrible, loud, and furious arguments, sometimes over the most petty of issues. It is humourously said that an Illatian friendship’s quality can be valued according to the frequency of their fights. However, arguments amongst Illatians rarely last more than a few days, as the community will band together that the conflict is resolved. This happens over a shared meal, sometimes a village feast. The apparent vacillation of this cultural oddity often stupifies foreigners, who might be put upon edge as two burly Illatians roar at each other from across the village in the morning, and, twelve hours later, are found dining together, laughing away their troubles. Disputes with non-Illatians, however, are likely to develop a long-harboured grudge if not resolved. ART CREATIVITY AND EXPRESSION Illatians are famed across the realm for their affinity for the Arts; in music, art, literature, and other fields, Illatians’ innermost beings are expressed in soulful catharsis. Illatians are traditionally great patrons of the arts, with feasts and celebrations always accompanied by entertainers. ARCHITECTURE Humble beginnings are evidenced by the mastery of such materials as cobblestone in Illatian architecture. The oldest Illatian settlements are truly rustic in their appearance; rough stone features extensively in traditional architecture - from cottages to castles. A small Illatian town’s layout is typically full of twists, turns and alleyways, and are typically established upon high ground. Illatians are also famed for their grand bridge-building. This traditional Illatian architecture is rustic, solid, and strong in character. However, a new movement sweeps across Illatian culture, one of enlightenment and revolution in art and mindset. This has begun to manifest itself in an increasingly artistic approach to architecture. More ostentatious in its flamboyant use of pillars, domes, steeples, and cornices, and aesthetically stimulating in the artistic use of colour, this style has also introduced the painting of historical and/or religious scenes upon the interiors of major buildings. Such a work of art is known as a ‘cielovista’. SPEECH & PRONUNCIATION OF WRITTEN SPEECH Illatians are easily identifiable by their excitable, articulated speech, delivered with enthusiasm and musicality. Despite their artful, poetic use of language, it is through their erratic waving of their hands that most meaning is conveyed. In their upbringing, an Illatian subconsciously develops a natural affinity for talking ‘with their hands’. As well as this, an Illatian is typically loud and boisterous, and might often (unintentionally) invade one’s personal space. The Illatian tongue might be regarded as elegant as that of the elves, in its natural flow and rhythmic expression of the soul. Many a maiden has swooned at the mere utterance of Illatian words. The main features of this language are: - Clear elocution; facial muscles are endlessly exercised. - ‘R’s are rolled. - Vowels have only one sound, unlike the Common Tongue. - The digraphs [ch] and [gh] indicate hardness when used before and [e]. - The digraphs [ci] and [gi] indicate softness when used before [a], [o], and . FASHION Even as peasants, Illatians find ways to appreciate the finer tastes in life. There is no such thing as ‘too much colour’ in Illatian culture, evident in their clothes more than anything else. Illatian commoners might often dress garishly, with no apparent theme to their outfit, often decorated with colourful patches where damaged by village life. Wealthier Illatians, however, seem to possess something of a taste in fashion. Extravagant materials are often used in pleasant combinations in a plethora of styles, adorned with laces and silken sashes. In addition to fanciful fabrics, it might be observed that many wealthy Illatian men possess an unhealthy obsession with headwear. Male wardrobes are crammed with hats of all shapes and typically made of such materials as wool, felt, and leather. Notable ‘must-haves’ amongst Illatian men include berets, flat caps, and roundlets. Illatian men are always on the hunt to initiate a new headwear trend... FAITH RELIGIOUS DEDICATION Illatians are traditionally fervent followers of the One True Faith, with it occupying a central, unifying position in communities, and in households. An Illatian will hear no ill spoken of the beloved clergy to whom they look to for guidance and peaceful conscience. Illatians are earnest in their church attendance, and often send their children to help with the maintenance of their diocese - gardening, assistance of priests, etc. AVERSION TO MAGIC This uncompromising religious dedication leads the Illatian people to fervently shun any form of magic that is not of the Creator. It is understood that magic is from ‘the Void’, and therefore a product of evil. A foreigner entering an Illatian community is warned against magic. If magic use is witnessed by an Illatian, they will immediately shut their eyes, block their ears, and sing praises of the Creator. Use of magic in an Illatian household will result in an immediate expulsion, as well as all cooked food in the house being thrown out for fear of its being cursed - usually upon the foolish mage’s head. FORTITUDE CULTURAL ENDURANCE Throughout the centuries, the Illatian people have experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly of each occupying power to take advantage of their ‘hospitality’. Yet, through the ages, these people have not only survived, but thrived, thanks to their strength in unity. Whilst prepared to honour the grand powers of the realm, Illatians will never allow themselves to be oppressed. Their resilient nature has allowed them to prosper through famine, war, and occupation. PATRIARCHY; RESPECT Illatian households are typically thought to be governed by a domineering paterfamilias. However, despite public organisations being headed by a male on nearly every occasion, there is an unspoken authority held by the women of Illatian society. These women are strong-willed and hot-tempered, and often engage in argument with their husbands (and, of course, other women), but never in a manner that might undermine his public gravitas. Illatians seek in their leaders this gravitas, fortitude, and authority. Illatian systems of government do not entertain idealist notions of democracy to a ridiculous extent; the authority vested in a strong, capable leader is enough for an Illatian, who, should he be impressed, will obey happily. The best way for foreigners to negotiate with Illatians is with confidence, and not sycophancy. CONSTITUTION Physically, Illatians are a stalwart people. Indeed, due to ethnic diversity, all bodytypes are seen. However, there is a widely-held notion that most Illatians are stout, hairy folk. Nevertheless, Illatians are not only unarguably strong, but have even greater stamina, and are suited to physically-demanding trades. Some have speculated that floating about somewhere in the Illatian genepool is the seed of Dwarves, but such is unbased, despite the high regard Illatians hold for the Dwarven people. ILLATIA AND THE WORLD: TRADE Illatia, as a cultural melting pot, excels in producing some of the finest products in the realm. A traditional inclination in the way of agriculture leads Illatians to be main exporters of cloth and agricultural goods. Illatian wool is famed for its softness and warmth, its properties employed in the production of fine, sturdy clothing. Illatian durum wheat semolina, used particularly for the creation of basto, is known for its nourishment. With the cultural contribution of the Nicatorii, wine has become an integral part of Illatian culture. Illatian vineyards produce some of the finest vintages; Illatians themselves make quite a hobby out of wine-tasting, and a few casks are sure to be found in every household. With their physical inclination for manual labour, the Illatian people are skilled producers of construction materials - sturdy, textured timber and stone are features of Illatian products, and use of these materials in Illatian architecture is endlessly varied. Further, a secondary export is that of furniture. With their finesse in the field of fashion, and abundance of fine materials, Illatians have introduced many beautiful styles of armchairs, sofas, beds, desks, etc. Illatian leather upholstery is particularly sought after. Weapons of Illatian steel are not necessarily superior in performance to any other, but, rather, are famed and sought after for their sheen. It is observed that, as a result of some process known only to these Illatian smiths, their steel requires less maintenance, and is shines more brilliantly than any other. Thus, Illatian steel weapons are used primarily for decorative purposes, though are still capable of cutting a man down effortlessly. A particular type of blade, the ‘pinsiero’, is characterised by its long, thin blade, and its elaborate hilt, and is used in swift slashing and thrusting. Wealthy Illatians often engage in duels with such blades, testing each other’s mettle and agility. LANGUAGE: COMMON PHRASES/TRANSLATIONS IDIOMS

I'm going to need you to finish up your app; otherwise, there'd be no point. I'd also suggest a race app if there are any adjustments to traditional orc features. Check the other apps for the standard, and then I can quickly accept you and you can get RPing :)

GM App Do you have a god?: No What experience do you have with leadership?: On LotC? Have helped with moderating a Nations FRP. However, as a mod, and also as a player, I endeavour to support the health of the FRP from behind-the-scenes, meticulously keeping track of each player's actions, and trying to make things work out smoothly. I would be critical of any power-gaming. I would make an effort to familiarise myself with every player's actions and situation. Give me a minor event for a prospering powerful city: A zealous, puritan religious movement; a group would rise up from amongst the people, dissatisfied with general dedication to their respective god. Whilst they would visibly increase religious growth and prominence, their forcible approach to spreading their beliefs would result in much division. Depending upon how they were dealt with, their cruelty towards 'unsatisfactory' believers might grow to a threatening level, with forced religious dedication. On the other hand, a counter-revolution might result in this zealotry being crushed, with a blow to religious dedication, and the triumph of freedom and happiness. Give me an event for a weak, failing city: One young individual rises up from humble beginnings in a farming town on the city's outskirts, teaching a strange derivation of the main religion. He attracts many followers, and, at first, the ire of the city's religious leaders. He claims to be in accordance with the principles of the main religion, offering insight upon its mysteries. The city could react to this in a positive way, taking him into the fold, with the cost of some unpredictable religious reforms. His followers would boost religious fervour. Some conservatives might have reservations. Perhaps, the city wishes to appoint him to an even greater level due to his popularity? Or perhaps, the city wishes to simply execute or exile him? Why should I pick you?: I'm ready to commit to this FRP, and am prepared to be as effective as possible by detaching myself from any personal investment. I enjoy such creative forms of expression and entertainment as FRP, and am excited to bring some colourful scenarios, with plenty of choices in approach. I feel that the examples above cater to their respective cities; with expense/reward tailored to the prosperity of each, offering each a chance, whilst maintaining a level playing-field. Do you promise to not cause events to your own nation, if applicable?: N/A I hope to provide the best moderation I can, at the expense of my own personal investment. Question: Skype Chat?

Nice guide! You may want to add something about scaffolding; I like to use such to add to the sense of 'UNDER CONSTRUCTION', even when I'm offline.

I suppose I don't really mind if it's larger; I've compiled as I have to establish some sort of standard size, but if a flag needs to be larger, it's okay; it's easily accommodated. But I'll note something in the OP, thanks.

The feedback to the recent conclusion of the Scourge is nothing but confirmation of the strengths of my proposal. The community loved it. For once, the antagonist was accessible to all, regardless of timezone. A perpetual battlefield created an ever-looming sense of terror; those who prevailed were lauded as heroes. Those who were not combat-inclined could help in other ways, or even remain absent, taking for granted the fragile peace of their world. My idea would provide a similar concept, but to an even deeper extent.

I might entertain this thought for a moment longer if it weren't for the fact that the current staff just don't have the resources to do so. Every staff group, including GMs, have a specified purpose - taking them away from such wastes their time and compromises overall server efficiency. However, if we were determined to have some kind of moderation, then I would simply propose that nation leaders are approved by staff, and be obligated to keep staff 'in the loop', recognising their own responsibilities as key representatives of the server. That might mean giving nation leaders a bit more prestige/authority in the community, so that they're taken seriously. Nation leaders could occupy a level somewhat below the staff, but with a say in the life of the server on a larger scale.

Alright guys, thanks for all your contributions so far. Sorry to be a pain, but I need some help. I'm adjusting the format to make the list more coherent and useful. Part of that will be making MC flags the primary focus. However, I'm a little unsure of the hierarchy of the Human section. Could someone explain to me how Oren works in terms of vassalage. Also, I don't understand how Kaedrin fits into things. pluz explen. :P tyvm. Edit: Okay, so far with the new organisation, MC flags are primary, and emblems, etc. are stored in spoilers.

Sorry, I was referring to the points raised in other posts, since your question had been answered :)

I don't feel that there's anything wrong with a staff-organised antagonist. Being something that would (presumably) terrorise the whole realm, moderation is essential for effectiveness. And with a 'staff-antag', it provides an opportunity for the whole server to get behind it. Also, I presume there'd be a great deal more strife where there's no authority. But then, one doesn't need to be part of the main antagonist to be an evil character, so I can't agree with those who call for 'player-antags'. You don't need a permit to organise a group like the Flays; stop complaining, waiting for the ET to force RP down your throat, or criticising the antag players, and make the RP you want to see.

Human, dwarf? ;) Is there only one Adunian house?

My birth was an 'event'!

Okay, thanks; I had nothing but signs at Vekaro to go on, so I assumed :P EDIT: Update. As is evident, it's getting pretty messy already, but fear not; I intend to organise it somewhat.

Got the Orenian images anywhere?

Mhmm! The idea originally sprung from observing all the different MC flags; however, despite my 'subtle suggestions' in a tiny spoiler, there aren't any so far. ;) It's alright. I'm thinking that I'll go find 'em myself. OFFICIAL DECREE of Aelidar the Great and Powerful: I'll try some MC representations of the above flags, and check them out with you guys :)